Question: On December 12th, the G7 Foreign and Development Ministers’ Meeting issued a Chair’s Statement, saying that the discussion at the meeting covered a range of China-related issues, such as the situation in Hong Kong and Xinjiang, in the East and South China Seas and across the Taiwan Strait, and that the meeting expressed concern about “coercive economic policies” of China. What is the comment of the Chinese Embassy in the UK?
Embassy Spokesperson: The G7 Foreign and Development Ministers’ Meeting confused right and wrong on a number of issues, made irresponsible remarks on China and interfered in China’s internal affairs. We express grave concern and strong opposition.
I want to emphasize that the affairs relating to Taiwan, Hong Kong and Xinjiang are purely China’s internal affairs and brook no external interference. No one should underestimate the strong resolve, will and capability of the Chinese people in defending their country’s territorial sovereignty.
On the East and South China Seas, China remains unwavering in its resolve to safeguard its sovereignty and maritime rights and interests. We stand ready to handle differences properly with the relevant countries through consultation and negotiation. Any interference in the situation of the East and South China Seas by any external force under any pretext would bring unnecessary disruptions to the peace and tranquility in the region and would not be in line with the interests of the countries in the region.
The accusation that China implemented “coercive economic policies” is totally groundless. Speaking of “coercive economic policies”, who imposed economic embargo and blockade on China in the 1950s and 1960s, and who waged trade war against China and mounted pressure and restriction on Chinese companies in recent years? The relevant country should answer these questions first and stop putting the blame on the victim!
China is country that loves peace and champions cooperation. It is always a defender of world peace, a contributor to global development and an upholder of international order. At the same time, China resolutely safeguards its sovereignty, security and development interests.
The time when G7 monopolized international affairs and bullied other countries at will has long gone. We urge the relevant countries to observe international law and the norms governing international relations with the UN Charter as the basis, and stop discrediting China, interfering in China’s internal affairs and provoking troubles in the relations between China and other countries. These attempts will never succeed!
