Beijing Objects to Upcoming China Package, Sanctions Planned by House Speaker

China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it opposes legislation planned by House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., that could lead to new sanctions on Chinese military firms.

In a speech last week, Johnson said the measures could target Chinese companies providing support to Russia and Iran (see 2407080046). A Chinese ministry spokesperson said during a regular press conference in Beijing on July 12 that the country “has the right to normal trade and economic cooperation with other countries, and opposes unilateral sanctions and long-arm jurisdiction that lack basis in international law and U.N. Security Council mandate,” according to a transcript provided in English.

The spokesperson added that the U.S. should “refrain from remarks and moves that harm China’s interests. China will take resolute measures to firmly safeguard its sovereignty, security and development interests.”