BEIJING, June 20 (Xinhua) -- China on Thursday expressed firm opposition to a U.S. senator's legislation proposal targeting Chinese firms, saying it is wrong to use state power to suppress Chinese companies.

U.S. Senator Marco Rubio had reportedly filed an amendment to the 2020 National Defense Authorization Act to the Congress. Under the amendment, companies on certain U.S. government watch lists, which would include China's Huawei, would not be allowed to seek relief under U.S. law with respect to U.S. patents, including bringing legal action over patent infringement.

"China firmly opposes the U.S. side to suppress Chinese enterprises by abusing state power," Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lu Kang said at a press briefing.

While the United States boasts itself as a country of the rule of law, a U.S. senator seeks legislation to hinder foreign businesses from protecting their legitimate rights according to law, Lu said, adding that such absurdity had provoked uproar both in and outside of the country.

"We didn't expect that certain people in the U.S. would manipulate the law and rules so flagrantly," Lu said. "This will not only tarnish the U.S. reputation and image but also hurt the U.S. companies in the long run."

"We urge the U.S. side to stop its wrongdoings, fairly treat the Chinese firms and create conditions for trade and cooperation between the two countries' companies," he said.

Lu added that China would take necessary measures to safeguard the legitimate rights of the Chinese companies.