'Do not use war to discredit others!' - China hits back at US sanctions over Iran as Trump heads to Beijing

"Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Guo Jiakun said in Beijing on Monday that US President Donald Trump would soon begin a state visit to China at the invitation of President Xi Jinping. "The diplomacy of the heads of state has an irreplaceable strategic leading role in Sino-US relations. China is willing to work with the United States to uphold the spirit of equality, respect and reciprocity, expand cooperation, control differences, and inject more stability and certainty into the intertwined world," Guo said. Trump's upcoming visit to China later this week will mark his first trip to the country since 2017 and the second face-to-face meeting with President Xi Jinping since Busan last October, as Beijing and Washington seek to manage tensions over Iran, trade, Taiwan and technology. It comes after the announcement of new sanctions by the US Treasury and State Department on Friday, targeting several companies and individuals in China, Hong Kong, and the Middle East.  Washington claimed some of the targeted firms helped Iran obtain weapons materials and satellite imagery allegedly linked to attacks on US forces in the region. Guo condemned the fresh US sanctions, urging Washington to stop using unilateral measures to pressure other countries. "We have always required Chinese companies to conduct business in accordance with the law and regulations and will firmly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of domestic companies," Guo explained. "Regarding the situation in Iran, China has repeatedly stated its solemn position. It is imperative to do its best to avoid the resumption of the war, rather than using the war to maliciously associate with and discredit other countries," he added. Earlier this month, China's Commerce Ministry issued measures blocking compliance with separate US sanctions targeting Chinese refineries accused of trading Iranian oil.  Both governments, however, have signalled they want to prevent further deterioration in relations despite geopolitical divisions."

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