Question: On 6 December, the UK government announced 46 new sanctions targeting individuals and groups “supplying and funding Putin’s war machine”, including three Chinese companies. What is your comment?

Embassy Spokesperson: The UK side's action constitutes violation of international law, abuse of unilateral sanctions, and damages the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies. We firmly oppose such action and have lodged stern representations with the UK side.

On the Ukraine issue, China has all along upheld an objective and fair stance, and has been actively working for peace talks and political settlement. However, the UK government, ignoringthe public opinion at home and in the world, has continued to add fuel to the fire. This has contributed to the protracted war and the loss of lives, making peace even more elusive. Instead of reflecting on its own vile behaviour, the UK has made excuses to sanction entities in China and other countries. This fully exposes the hypocrisy on the part of the UK itself.

We urge the UK government to immediately rectify its wrongdoing and revoke sanctions against Chinese companies. The Chinese government will take firm and strong measures to defend the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises. The UK side must know that any action that harms China's interests will be met with our firm response.