BEIJING, April 19 (Xinhua) -- China said on Tuesday that its utilization of transnational rivers will not harm the interests of countries located downstream from the areas being used.

"China has always taken a responsible attitude toward developing and utilizing transnational rivers and has always given full consideration to the legitimate interests of downstream countries," Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said during a briefing on Tuesday.

Hong's comments came in response to media reports indicating that some neighboring countries were concerned about China's construction of dams on transnational rivers.

Hong said China has always paid a great deal of attention to the impact its behavior might have on the environment, and has taken the concerns of downstream countries into account and maintained good communication with related countries.

"As a responsible upstream country, China will never do anything to harm the interests of downstream countries," Hong said.

He said China will continue to communicate with related parties on the basis of equal consultation and mutual benefit.

source:Xinhua