
Cairo: Hani Kamal El-Din
China is prepared to join the international community, including the European Union, in defending the principles of international trade, as well as fairness and justice. This statement was made on Monday by the spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Lin Jian.
The diplomat made this remark during a regular briefing in response to questions regarding the coordination and communication between China and the EU over the issue of additional U.S. tariffs.
U.S. Tariffs: An Unjust Tool of Pressure
Lin Jian stated that the United States is using tariffs as a weapon to exert maximum pressure and achieve selfish objectives, placing its own interests above the collective interests of the international community. He described this as a clear example of unilateralism, protectionism, and economic bullying, which severely damages the interests of China, the European Union, and the global community as a whole.
China and the EU: Leading the Global Economic Integration
The spokesperson emphasized that China and the EU, as the world’s second and third largest economies, together account for more than a third of the global economy and over a quarter of world trade. According to Lin, both China and the European Union are steadfast supporters of economic globalization and trade liberalization, and strong advocates for the World Trade Organization (WTO).
EU’s Role in Ensuring Global Economic Stability
Lin Jian noted that European Union leaders recognize the importance of stability and certainty for the healthy functioning of the global economy. He added that China and the EU’s commitment to defending a fair and open multilateral trade system centered on the WTO, as well as ensuring the healthy and sustainable development of global trade and economic relations, aligns with the shared interests of both sides and the entire world.
China’s Resolve in Protecting Its Interests
As a responsible global power, China has already taken decisive measures and will continue to defend its legitimate interests, the diplomat stressed. He further stated that China is ready to work closely with the international community, including the EU, to strengthen communication, enhance cooperation, share development opportunities, expand openness, and achieve mutual benefit and win-win outcomes. This, he explained, will not only protect the interests of the parties involved but also defend the principles of international trade, fairness, and justice.