BEIJING, Ramadan 19, 1435, July 16, 2014, SPA -- China issued a formal complaint to Britain on Wednesday after Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg met pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong campaigning against Beijing's tightening control of the former British territory, Reuters reported. British media reported that veteran activists Anson Chan and Martin Lee met Clegg on Tuesday. Asked about the meeting, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said China was firmly opposed to any foreign interference in its internal affairs on any pretext. "The UK's actions are an interference in China's internal affairs. China expresses strong dissatisfaction," Hong said in a statement posted on the ministry website. "China urges the UK-side to earnestly respect China's stance and concerns, abide by its promises ... and take practical efforts to safeguard China-UK relations and bilateral cooperation," Hong said. --SPA 16:01 LOCAL TIME 13:01 GMT www.spa.gov.sa/w