Beijing calls off exchanges

Wave of rioting in Vietnam has 'sabotaged the atmosphere and conditions for communication'

China has called off some planned exchanges with Vietnam and dispatched aircraft and ships to pick up injured and frightened Chinese nationals caught in violent anti-China riots.

Since Tuesday, severe riots have erupted in many places in Vietnam, leading to robbery, arson and vandalism against foreign businesses, and to casualties and property damage of Chinese citizens, Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said.