United States Ambassador to China, Jon Huntsman, was caught on tape at an anti-government protest in Beijing, but quickly left the scene after someone in the crowd noticed his presence and accused him of wanting to see chaos in the country.

According to Politico, Huntsman, who will resign on April 30 and who is considering a bid for the Republican nomination in 2012, was with his family members.

The anti-government gathering was part of the protest movement dubbed the 'Jasmine Revolution' and linked to pro-democracy

protests in the Middle East.

"Hey Mr Ambassador, what are you doing here," a member of the crowd asked upon recognising him, according to a video posted by the China-based blog Shanghiist.

"I am just here to look around," said Huntsman, according to Shanghiist's translation of the video.

"You want to see chaos in China," the man said.

"No, I do not," Huntsman answered.

A US Embassy spokesperson later clarified that Huntsman was passing by on his way to a museum near Tiananmen Square with his family.