American and Chinese flags flutter in Genting Park ahead of the 2022 Winter Olympic Games, February 2, 2022. Zhangjiakou, China. AP/Kiichiro Sato
As stated by the spokesperson of the Chinese Foreign Ministry Lin Jian on the site iPress
Beijing promised decisive actions in response to possible NATO tariffs that could arise from the purchase of Russian oil by alliance member states under US pressure. This position was voiced by Lin Jian, spokesman for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
According to him, economic, trade, and energy engagement among the PRC, Russia, and other partners remains lawful and justified, and US actions are viewed as typical unilateral intimidation and economic coercion that seriously undermine the rules of global trade and threaten the security and stability of global supply chains.
Lin Jian also stressed that China firmly opposes abuses of illegal unilateral sanctions and will defend its legitimate interests in any circumstances.
If China’s legitimate rights and interests are violated, China will resolutely counterattack and firmly defend its sovereignty, security and development interests
The spokesperson also stressed that China’s position on resolving the Ukrainian crisis is based on dialogue and diplomacy – dialogue and negotiations remain the only viable way to resolve the situation. He emphasized the PRC’s desire to contribute to peace and mutual understanding on the international stage.
Global reaction and subsequent statements
At the beginning of August, the media reported that the U.S. president was considering imposing tariffs not only against India but also against other countries that import Russian oil, with China named among them.
On August 8, China stated that imports of Russian oil are justified and rejected U.S. threats to impose new tariffs on oil-importing states of the Russian Federation.
Analysts emphasize that such disagreements indicate growing tension between Beijing, Washington, and allies, as well as potential impacts on global energy markets and the structure of supply chains. Maintaining stability and pragmatic steps by China could play a key role in preventing escalation and preserving economic balance on the world stage.
In the future, events around oil contracts and tariff maneuvers may shape new rules of interaction between regions and influence the economic decisions of countries that import oil. Experts advise focusing on dialogue and multilateral approaches to avoid unnecessary tension and preserve stability of global markets.
We recommend paying attention to:
- NASA restricts Chinese citizens with valid US visas from participating in its programs, intensifying US-China space competition amid China’s lunar ambitions.
- The US Treasury urges G7 and EU allies to impose significant tariffs on Chinese and Indian oil imports to reduce Russian oil purchases and increase pressure on Moscow.
- The US Navy conducted a freedom of navigation operation near Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea, escalating tensions with China amid territorial disputes and recent maritime incidents.
