Chinese authorities are investigating an American businesswoman on suspicion that she threatened China’s national security, the Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday, confirming earlier media reports that Phan Phan-Gillis of Houston was detained earlier this year while travelling in the country.
Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said the woman was healthy and was able to meet with American officials. He said Beijing is handling the case according to China’s laws.
Citing privacy concerns, the U.S. Embassy on Tuesday declined to comment on the woman’s detention.
The Houston Chronicle reported on Monday that she was in a trade delegation to China when she was stopped on her way to Macau.
The Chronicle said she was on a routine trip with Houston officials and businesspeople to China to promote trade with the Texas city.
