Beijing will firmly oppose U.S. pressure on tariffs and the fentanyl issue, as stated by China's Foreign Minister on Friday. The minister emphasized the importance of major powers refraining from bullying weaker nations, indirectly criticizing the Trump administration's foreign policy.
Foreign Minister Wang Yi also highlighted China as a reliable global power amidst geopolitical uncertainty and U.S. withdrawal from international institutions, signaling a clear message to Europe and nations in the Global South.
Regarding recent U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports due to fentanyl concerns, Wang Yi warned that China will retaliate against any unilateral pressure. He underscored that the U.S. should not impose tariffs unjustly, especially considering China's cooperation in combating the flow of fentanyl precursor drugs.
In a press conference, Wang Yi suggested that maintaining good relations with China while applying pressure is counterproductive. Refusing to name specific officials, he emphasized that such a two-faced approach undermines stable ties.
Wang Yi expressed China's willingness to play a constructive role in resolving the Ukraine conflict by working towards a fair and lasting peace agreement acceptable to all parties involved.
Amid calls for China to use its economic influence over Russia to address the Ukraine situation, Wang affirmed that China-Russia relations are stable and not influenced by geopolitical maneuvers.
China seeks to strengthen ties with European countries amid growing transatlantic divides over various global issues. Wang Yi stressed the importance of developing countries enhancing their influence in global governance.
In light of recent U.S. foreign policy shifts, China aims to portray itself as a stabilizing force, presenting an alternative to what is perceived as retrenchment by the U.S. This stance is intended to address concerns of a strategic vacuum in the Global South.