China protests EU sanctions imposed over support for Russia
Photo: Chinese Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao (Getty Images)
Beijing has expressed official dissatisfaction with the European Union over the inclusion of two Chinese banks in a new package of sanctions against Russia over the war in Ukraine, La Repubblica reports.
Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao lodged official complaints during a video conference with European Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič. The meeting took place against the backdrop of China's close economic ties with Russia despite Russia's full-scale war against Ukraine.
"The two sides held frank and in-depth discussions on economic and trade cooperation between China and the EU and related issues," the Chinese ministry said in a statement.
Wang also filed formal complaints about the EU's inclusion of two Chinese financial institutions in the 18th round of sanctions against Russia.
Although Beijing continues to position itself as a neutral party in the conflict, it has not yet condemned Russia's aggression against Ukraine and, as noted by Western observers, retains the status of a strategic partner for Moscow.
Under sanctions
Because of China's close ties with Russia, which is waging war against Ukraine, the European Union imposed sanctions on two Chinese banks and five companies registered in China. Financial institutions that work with cryptocurrencies are also under attack.
The Ministry of Commerce of China has already stated that such actions seriously damaged trade, economic, and financial relations and emphasized that Beijing will take the necessary measures to protect the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies and financial institutions.
Read more about the 18th package of EU sanctions in RBC-Ukraine's article.
