China opposes Canada including Chinese companies in new Russia sanctions
China has expressed its dissatisfaction with Canada’s decision to include Chinese companies in new sanctions against Russia, with the Chinese foreign ministry lodging a diplomatic protest on Tuesday. In a regular news conference, Lin Jian, a spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry, stated that China has always been against unilateral sanctions that lack a basis in international law and are not authorized by the United Nations Security Council. He emphasized that Canada’s sanctions against Chinese entities are unjustified and wrong.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the new sanctions on Monday, targeting 76 individuals and entities that are allegedly providing support to Russia’s military, involved in the forced transfer of Ukrainian children, or supporting Russian President Vladimir Putin’s regime. Additionally, Canada is sanctioning 109 vessels for their involvement in transferring sanctioned Russian goods, including hydrocarbons, which are said to fuel Russia’s war efforts.
Trudeau’s announcement came amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with the prime minister condemning Russia’s “war of aggression” in Kyiv and pledging more support for Ukraine’s fight against Russian aggression. The sanctions are part of Canada’s efforts to hold accountable those who are aiding Russia’s military actions and to cut off financial support to the Russian regime.
The diplomatic tension between China and Canada over the inclusion of Chinese companies in the sanctions highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the current global landscape. As the conflict in Ukraine continues to escalate, countries around the world are taking various measures to support Ukraine and condemn Russia’s actions. The repercussions of these sanctions and diplomatic protests are yet to be seen, but they underscore the challenges of navigating international relations in times of crisis.
