China understands why some countries are imposing restrictive travel measures on its citizens to curb the spread of SARS, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Zhang Qiyue said here Tuesday.

But Zhang added, "We believe all sides should treat Chinese citizens fairly as they go about their normal business."

Zhang said severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) was an unexpected disaster, and it took time for countries to learn how to deal with it.

"To prevent the further spread of SARS, some countries have adopted temporary measures, including putting restrictions on people from infected areas, or taking quarantine measures on entry. China feels that is understandable," she said.

Zhang expressed hope that the epidemic would be brought under control soon so normal exchanges between China and foreign countries could continue as normally as possible.

(Xinhua News Agency May 14, 2003)