China says cooperation with Iran complies with international law

China’s foreign ministry has vehemently criticized the United States for imposing sanctions on Iran, asserting that these measures only escalate tensions and fail to address the underlying issues. Beijing’s continued cooperation with Tehran, according to the ministry, is carried out in accordance with international law. In response to Washington’s threats of sanctions against Iran, the ministry declared: “Beijing’s cooperation with Iran has always been conducted within the framework of international law.”

A spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry, Lin Jian, addressed concerns raised by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent about potential secondary sanctions on countries engaging in trade with Iran. Lin reaffirmed China’s commitment to monitoring the situation and taking necessary steps to safeguard its rights. These comments align with the heightened pressure from the United States, as President Donald Trump has initiated economic sanctions and maximum sanctions on Iran, coupled with measures to monitor shipping and restrict trade related to Tehran.