Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning added that Beijing will take necessary measures to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of domestic companies. “On the issue of the Ukraine crisis, China has always adhered to an objective and fair position, and has always been committed to promoting peace talks,” the spokeswoman emphasized.

The United States is considering imposing new sanctions against Chinese companies suspected of assisting Russia in maintaining its military operation in Ukraine, US television CNBC reported after quoting members of the US Congress.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi spoke recently with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken about these and other issues on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference.

Wang Yi advocated lifting “illegal unilateral sanctions against Chinese companies and individuals,” noting that both countries should adhere to the principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and cooperation.

China protested recent US coercive measures against four companies and nine people for allegedly lending military aid to Russia.

On several occasions, Beijing accused Washington of abusing actions against Chinese exports and products with the aim of containing China’s development.

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