FOCUS – China Opposes U.S. Sanctions Law Targeting Buyers of Russian Energy

BEIJING, September 17 /ATSH-DPA/ – China on Thursday criticized new U.S. sanctions legislation against Russia, which could also have a significant impact on Beijing, one of the main buyers of Russian energy.

The law, already passed by both chambers of the U.S. Congress, is expected to be sent to President Donald Trump for signature.

It gives the president the authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries that buy large quantities of oil and gas from Russia.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said China maintains “normal economic and trade relations with all countries of the world on the basis of equality and mutual benefit.”

According to him, China’s economic cooperation with other countries is not directed against any third party, and these countries should not interfere or exert pressure on it.

Beijing also opposes the extraterritorial application of U.S. laws, particularly when, in its view, these measures have no basis in international law and have not been authorized by the UN Security Council.

The law aims to limit Russia’s ability to finance the war against Ukraine.

In addition to direct sanctions on Russian officials and companies, it provides for measures against Russian oil and gas exports.

President Trump could impose tariffs of up to 100% on imports from countries ranked among the five largest buyers of Russian crude oil or natural gas that continue these purchases.

Source: ATSH-DPA