China has once again criticized the sanctions. The Chinese government has for the first time openly denied allegations that the United States (US) and European countries could circumvent their sanctions against Russia because of their attacks on Ukraine.
“We are not doing anything deliberately to circumvent the sanctions imposed on Russia by the Americans and Europeans,” Wang Lutong, head of the European Department of China’s Foreign Ministry, said on Saturday. However, Vang also criticized the sanctions imposed on Russia, warning that “We are against sanctions and the effect of these sanctions could spread to the whole world.”
Stressing that China’s normal trade relations with Russia “should not be affected” by these sanctions, Vang said it was necessary to “avoid any potential damage to the supply and industrial chain” for the benefit of the global economy.
Wang also stated that China’s role in the current crisis is limited and said, “The key to solving this problem is in the hands of Washington and Brussels, not China.” Noting that Europe’s security is at stake, Vang said that Europe can solve this problem.
At a summit of European Union (EU) and Chinese leaders online on Friday, Brussels warned Beijing not to help Russia to bypass sanctions.
The Chinese government, which has not made statements condemning Russia’s attack on Ukraine, offers neutral mediation between Russia and Ukraine. However, it is observed that the Chinese state media mostly follows the Russian line and criticizes the USA and NATO.
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, also called on China to use its influence to Moscow to end the Ukraine war.
There are statements from Russia and China emphasizing the close cooperation between them. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and his Chinese counterpart, Vang Yi, emphasized the will to further strategic partnership and “establish a fair and democratic new world order”.
AFP/AI, JD
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