BEIJING -- A spokesman for China's Foreign Ministry said Wednesday that media reports alleging that Chinese enterprises have offered bribes in Nepal to get construction contracts are "totally groundless".

Chinese enterprises have long conducted investment and project contracting in Nepal, abiding by local laws and playing an important role in promoting the economic and social development of Nepal, spokesman Hong Lei said at a daily news briefing.

These enterprises have also promoted mutually beneficial cooperation between China and Nepal, Hong said.

The Chinese government will continue to encourage capable and reputable enterprises to invest and develop in Nepal, Hong said.