China’s Ministry of Commerce has attributed escalating trade tensions to the European Union (EU), expressing concern over potential repercussions on global economic stability. In a statement released on Friday, the ministry emphasized that the responsibility for the heightened frictions “lies solely with the EU side.”
The Chinese ministry highlighted that while China has consistently demonstrated an open and cooperative attitude, the EU has “regrettably” continued to provoke trade disputes. “China does not want to see the ongoing trade frictions with the EU,” the statement stressed, calling for dialogue and consultation to resolve the issues.
According to the ministry, since the beginning of the year, the EU has imposed 31 restrictive trade and investment measures against China, 25 of which were trade remedies. These actions, the ministry noted, have “seriously undermined China-EU economic and trade cooperation.”
China reaffirmed its commitment to following World Trade Organization (WTO) rules, stating that it has used trade remedy measures with “prudence and restraint.” The ministry underscored China’s determination to safeguard its legitimate interests in the face of what it describes as the EU’s protectionism.
“We hope the EU will handle the differences through dialogues and prevent trade frictions from escalating or going out of control,” the ministry urged, signaling a willingness to work collaboratively to defuse tensions.
The escalating trade frictions come at a time when global economic recovery remains fragile. Observers note that a cooperative approach between China and the EU is crucial for maintaining stability in international markets.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
