China has expressed its opposition to the United States sanctions on some of its companies for importing oil from Iran.

Why it matters:

China's opposition is significant as it underscores the growing geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and China. It highlights China's commitment to securing energy resources and supporting Iran, potentially altering global trade dynamics. This stance may encourage other nations to resist U.S. sanctions.

 

The big picture:

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning made the remarks on
Friday at a regular press briefing when she was asked to comment on the U.S.' announcement of sanctions against an oil refinery in East China's Shandong and an oil terminal in South China's Guangdong for importing Iranian oil.

 

What she's saying:

She said that China has always opposed the abuse of illegal unilateral sanctions and long-arm jurisdiction and urged the US to stop interfering with and undermining the normal trade and economic cooperation between China and Iran.

Mao also said that China would take all necessary measures to firmly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises. 

Hossein Amiri