Photo: Screenshot of the Chinese Mission to the European Union

 
China is strongly dissatisfied with and firmly opposes the European side's repeated illegal unilateral sanctions against Chinese entities under the pretext of their alleged connection with Russia, and has made solemn representations to the European side, the spokesperson for the Chinese Mission to the European Union (EU) said on Friday, in response to the EU's announcement on Thursday of the listing of Chinese entities in its 19th round of sanctions on Russia.

The spokesperson said that China is not the creator of the Ukraine crisis, nor a party to it, adding that however, the country has been committed to promoting talks for peace, and has not provided lethal weapons to either side of the conflict. 

China exercises strict control over the export of dual-use items, and has received widespread appreciation and support from the international community for its impartial position and responsible attitude, the spokesperson added.

Most countries, including European ones, are carrying out trade with Russia, therefore, the European side is in no position to make unwarranted accusations against normal China-Russia trade and economic cooperation, according to the spokesperson.

"We urge the EU to stop using China as an excuse and making an issue of China, stop undermining China's legitimate rights and interests, and do more to contribute to the sound and steady growth of China-EU relations," said the spokesperson. 

China will take all necessary measures to resolutely uphold its legitimate and lawful rights and interests, the spokesperson added.

Global Times