China continues to focus on economic relations with Russia

However, it became clear that despite the Ukrainian war, China continues to rely on economic ties with Russia. “There are normal exchanges and cooperation between Chinese and Russian enterprises. And these normal exchanges must not be disturbed,” Qin Gang said, according to the translation. At the same time, it is the law in China not to ship weapons to crisis areas. There are also related regulations for so-called dual-use goods, which can be used for both civilian and military purposes.

In this context, Qin Gang criticized the EU’s new sanctions against Russia. It was “strongly opposed” to countries launching unilateral sanctions against China or other countries under their own domestic laws, he said, according to the translation. “If that is the case, we will also respond decisively and decisively. And we will also defend the legitimate interests of our country and our company.”

Baerbock: Sanctions should not be underestimated

Baerbock emphasized that it is important that sanctions are not violated indirectly. “It is very important when Russian arms companies acquire war-relevant goods,” he said. That is why the EU is examining very targeted measures to ensure that sanctioned goods do not fall into the wrong hands. “It’s not directed at any particular country, it’s specific to these sanctioned assets,” he said. However, he expects China to act according to his company.

China’s foreign minister warned against pursuing a policy of “decoupling” the economy, fomenting antagonism or exploiting currency monopolies – an obvious reference to US policy. “If this new Cold War becomes a reality, it will not only be at the expense of China, but also at the expense of Europe,” he said, according to the translation. He called on China and Germany to act together to ensure the stability of global supply chains.