Chinese pair face Iran spy claims

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Iran has arrested two Chinese nationals for allegedly spying on military and nuclear facilities.

A judiciary spokesman said the two had been detained while taking photographs of a military complex in the town of Arak, in central Iran.

Tehran is building a controversial nuclear reactor near the town.

Iran has good relations with Beijing and correspondents say this is the first time Chinese citizens have been accused of spying there.

Spokesman Ali Reza Jamshid said the two entered Iran via the beach resort of Kish island which lies off Iran's southern coast.

Oil connection

He told the Associated Press: "The Chinese nationals were detained while taking photos and recording video tape of a military complex in Arak city.

"They entered Iran through Kish island as tourists."

In Iran, taking pictures of military installations is a serious offence.

In March 2006, two Swedes were arrested in Iran for taking pictures of military installations on the southern island of Qeshm.

They were sentenced to two years in prison but were subsequently released in April this year.

China's good relationship with Tehran means it has secured involvement in large oil deals in the country.

However, it has voiced support for US-led international efforts to stop Iran from becoming a nuclear power.