China has defended its continued economic, trade, and energy cooperation with Russia, insisting such activities are lawful, legitimate, and beyond reproach.
At a regular press briefing on Monday, foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian criticized Washington’s push for the G7 and NATO allies to impose fresh tariffs on Chinese imports of Russian oil, describing the move as “unilateral bullying and economic coercion.”
“The actions of the United States seriously undermine international economic and trade rules, while threatening the security and stability of global industrial and supply chains. Coercion is unwelcome and cannot solve problems,” Lin said.
He reiterated Beijing’s position on the Ukraine crisis, stressing that dialogue and negotiation remain the only viable solutions. China, he added, has consistently promoted peace talks and maintained an objective stance since the conflict began.
Lin also condemned what he called “excessive and illegal” unilateral sanctions and extraterritorial measures targeting China, warning that Beijing would respond decisively if its rights and interests were threatened.
“If China’s legitimate rights and interests are infringed upon, it will take resolute countermeasures to firmly safeguard its sovereignty, security, and development interests,” he declared.
