In a strong response to the United States' latest investment restrictions, China has voiced its disapproval, warning that such measures will ultimately harm the U.S. economy and diminish its global standing. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian made these remarks during a regular press briefing on Monday.
Lin criticized a memorandum released by the U.S. on Friday, which categorizes China as a \"foreign adversary\" on national security grounds and introduces various discriminatory investment restrictions. \"We strongly deplore and firmly oppose this and have lodged serious protests with the U.S. side,\" Lin stated.
The spokesperson emphasized that the tightening of security reviews targeting Chinese investments in the U.S. undermines the confidence of Chinese companies looking to invest stateside and damages the overall U.S. business environment. Additionally, increasing restrictions on U.S. investments in China are seen as artificial interference with the independent decision-making of American businesses, according to Lin.
\"China urges the United States to abide by international investment and trade rules, respect the laws of market economy, and stop politicizing and weaponizing economic and trade issues,\" Lin added. He also called on the U.S. to cease actions that undermine China's legitimate development rights, assuring that China will take all necessary measures to safeguard its interests.
Addressing specific sectors, Lin criticized U.S. restrictions on China's shipbuilding industry and other related areas. He accused the United States of abusing the Section 301 investigation mechanism for domestic political gains, which he claims violates WTO rules and harms the multilateral trading system. \"China is strongly dissatisfied with this and firmly opposes it,\" Lin affirmed.
The spokesperson concluded by urging the United States to respect facts and multilateral rules, and to halt its current course of action. \"China will take necessary measures to defend its legitimate rights and interests,\" Lin stated.
Reference(s):
China rebukes U.S. over new investment curbs, vows to defend interests
cgtn.com
