The Chinese Ministry of Commerce has shifted blame for the rising trade tensions, pointing fingers directly at the European Union (EU). In a statement released on Friday, the ministry asserted that the EU is solely responsible for the escalating trade disputes, which could potentially spiral into a full-blown trade war.
\"The responsibility lies solely with the EU side,\" the ministry declared, addressing the European concerns over possible intensifications in trade frictions. China emphasized its unwillingness to continue facing these ongoing trade disagreements, highlighting that the EU has been the primary provocateur in these disputes.
Since the start of the year, the EU has introduced 31 restrictive trade and investment measures against China, with 25 categorized as trade remedies. These actions, according to the Chinese Ministry of Commerce, have significantly undermined the economic and trade cooperation between China and the EU.
Despite these challenges, China has maintained an open and cooperative stance, actively seeking to resolve issues through dialogue and consultation. The ministry reiterated that China has always adhered to World Trade Organization (WTO) rules, employing trade remedy measures with caution and restraint.
Faced with what it describes as EU protectionism, China remains determined to protect its legitimate and lawful interests. The ministry expressed hope that the EU will engage in constructive dialogue to address differences, aiming to prevent trade frictions from escalating further or becoming uncontrollable.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
