China is defending its censorship of the Internet and suggesting U.S. objections to the practice amount to interference in China’s internal affairs.

The United States had asked for an explanation why China blocks American companies from providing their services to Chinese customers over the Internet.

Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Jiang Yu did not respond directly to the request, but she told reporters that Beijing encourages the use of the Internet and is willing to work with other parties to enhance communication.

U.S. Trade representative Ron Kirk said Wednesday that the United States is seeking detailed information on China’s Internet practices through the Word Trade Organization.

China employs perhaps the world’s most sophisticated Internet-censoring technology, sometimes referred to as the Great Firewall of China.

U.S. Internet giant Google complained last year about Chinese government censors and re-routed its mainland users to its uncensored website in Hong Kong.

But Jiang insisted Thursday that China’s actions are in line with accepted international practice.