China Vows Response to EU Sanctions Targeting Chinese Companies
Beijing expresses 'resolute protest' over inclusion of Chinese firms in latest EU anti-Russian sanctions package
Quick Look
The Chinese Ministry of Commerce has condemned the EU's inclusion of Chinese companies in its latest anti-Russian sanctions package, vowing to take necessary measures to protect its businesses and demanding their immediate removal from the list.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
The European Union has been implementing successive packages of sanctions against Russia in response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which increasingly include entities from third countries accused of facilitating the circumvention of these measures.
Chinese authorities will take all necessary measures in response to the inclusion of Chinese companies in the 20th package of anti-Russian sanctions imposed by the European Union, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce said in a statement.
"The European Union has ignored China's repeated motions and objections, unceremoniously including Chinese companies in the 20th package of sanctions against Russia. We express our deep dissatisfaction and resolute protest in this regard," the ministry said.
Beijing is categorically opposed to unilateral restrictions not sanctioned by the UN Security Council and so-called extraterritorial jurisdiction against its citizens and legal entities, the ministry stated. Such actions by Brussels seriously undermine mutual trust and run counter to the spirit of the consensus reached by Chinese and EU leaders.
The Chinese side called on Brussels to immediately remove the companies from the sanctions lists and resolve any concerns that arise through dialogue. Beijing promised to firmly protect the legitimate rights of its businesses, warning that the European Union would bear full responsibility for any consequences. Brussels announced the introduction of the 20th package of anti-Russian restrictions on April 23.
What to Watch
AI outlook — possibilities, not facts
China will announce specific retaliatory trade measures against EU entities.
Likely · Within weeks
Open Questions
- What specific measures will China take in response?
- Which Chinese companies were included in the 20th sanctions package?
