China on Thursday called on the United States to remove sanctions imposed on Chinese companies and citizens over their alleged connections to Iran.
Chinese Commerce Ministry spokesperson Huang Ling said Beijing strongly opposes unilateral sanctions that lack a legal basis under international law or authorization from the UN Security Council. She expressed dissatisfaction with Washington for continuing to impose such measures despite China’s objections.
According to Huang, the US sanctions are interfering with normal international trade and economic cooperation while also creating risks for global energy security and stable supplies.
Beijing urged Washington to immediately end what it described as wrongful practices and withdraw the sanctions against the affected Chinese businesses and individuals. Huang added that China would take steps to protect the legitimate interests of its companies and citizens.
The United States announced sanctions in July against six individuals and organizations across four countries, including China, accusing them of supporting Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and its major transportation network, Mahan Air.
The measures are part of Washington’s broader campaign to restrict Iran’s access to the international financial system following the US-Iran conflict that began on February 28.
The dispute comes as Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to make a reciprocal visit to the United States after President Donald Trump’s visit to Beijing in May.
NEWS DESK
PRESS UPDATE