China ramps up web censorship over unrest fears
The ongoing uprising in Egypt might be ringing alarm bells in capitals across the Middle East but it is also causing concern in Beijing, where authorities have long feared a popular revolt.
Mindful of contagion authorities and the use of social media sites to mobilise opposition the Chinese government has blocked the word “Egypt” on microblogging sites.
Censors have also been busy scouring comments and posts made on the limited reports made on the story by state news channels, which have given only limited coverage to events.
It comes amidst a growing trend toward tighter media censorship as the nation gears up for a leadership succession next year when half a dozen top Communist party officials retire.
China has close diplomatic ties with the Egyptian regime, selling millions of dollars in armaments, but has warned its citizens to reconsider any travel plans to the country.