China’s Ministry of Commerce has expressed strong opposition to the European Union’s decision to include four Chinese companies in its 13th package of sanctions against Russia. The ministry stated on Monday that the unilateral sanctions and so-called “long-arm jurisdiction” lack any basis in international law and have no mandate from the United Nations Security Council.
“This act runs counter to the spirit of the consensus reached at the China-EU summit and will have a negative impact on China-EU economic and trade relations,” the ministry said in a statement. It urged the EU to consider the overall interests of the China-EU comprehensive strategic partnership and called for the immediate removal of the sanctions on the Chinese firms.
The ministry also emphasized China’s commitment to safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises. “China will take necessary measures to resolutely defend the lawful rights of our companies,” the statement added.
The EU’s latest sanctions package targets entities that it alleges are supporting Russia’s military operations in Ukraine. The inclusion of Chinese companies marks an expansion of the EU’s efforts to prevent the circumvention of sanctions through third countries.
Experts note that the EU’s move could strain relations between China and the EU, which are significant trading partners. The two sides have previously emphasized the importance of dialogue and cooperation to address global challenges.
China has consistently maintained a neutral stance on the conflict in Ukraine, calling for peaceful resolution through dialogue and negotiations. The Chinese government has also opposed unilateral sanctions not endorsed by the UN, arguing that such measures undermine international law.
The affected Chinese companies have not publicly commented on the sanctions. It remains to be seen how this development will influence future China-EU economic and trade relations.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
