Photo: China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian

In commenting on Global Times' question about media reports, including the claim that Pakistan used Chinese equipment and technology to export rare-earths to the US, which allegedly prompted China to introduce stricter export controls on rare-earth-related technologies, and that some social media accounts have published videos and articles claiming that Pakistan presented rare earth samples to the US and agreed to cooperate on rare earths, and that "China has taken countermeasures against Pakistan's rare earth exports to the US," Chinese Foreign Ministry (FM) spokesperson Lin Jian said on Monday that China and Pakistan are all-weather strategic cooperative partners. Their ironclad friendship has stood the test of time, with both sides maintaining a high level of strategic mutual trust and close communication on major issues concerning their shared interests.

"As far as I know, China and Pakistan have communicated on the issue of Pakistan-US mineral cooperation," Lin Jian said. 

He noted that the Pakistani side stressed its engagement with the US would never undermine China's interests and China-Pakistan cooperation. The mineral samples presented and gifted by Pakistani leaders to their US counterparts were raw gemstone samples purchased by staff, Lin added.
"The reports you mentioned are either unaware of the facts, or are based on speculation, or even are intended to sow discord. They are groundless," Lin said. 

"China's recent announcement on export control measures concerning rare earths and related items has nothing to do with Pakistan. It is a legitimate step taken by the Chinese government in accordance with the laws and regulations to improve its export control system, better safeguard world peace and regional stability, and fulfill its non-proliferation obligations."

Global Times