Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian called them unfounded and erroneous, while stressing Beijing’s firm opposition to these unilateral measures. He denounced that the sanctions have no basis in international law and have not been authorized by the UN Security Council.

The spokesman stressed that China has always maintained an objective and impartial position regarding the conflict in Ukraine. He also stressed that its objective is to promote a political solution to the crisis and has never supplied lethal weapons to the warring parties.

According to Lin Jian, China maintains strict control over the export of dual-use goods (civilian and military). In particular, he noted that the export control measures for drones implemented by China are the most rigorous in the world.

The spokesman also recalled that trade relations between China and Russia are based on principles of equality, mutual benefit and normal cooperation. “These activities are legitimate and reasonable, and should not be questioned,” the spokesman stressed.

China urged Canada to immediately reverse this decision and warned that Beijing will take necessary measures to safeguard its legitimate rights and interests.

Canada announced on Monday sanctions against 76 foreign entities and individuals accused of providing support to Russia with dual-use goods, among those affected are more than 20 Chinese companies.

The European Union also said it would sanction China for providing topographic data and satellite services to Russia.

China has repeatedly stated that normal exchanges and cooperation between Chinese and Russian companies should not be interfered with or affected by third parties.

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