US sanctions Iran, China sends diplomatic note of protest

Beijing's diplomatic note to Washington came after the US imposed narrow sanctions on Iranian and Chinese individuals for supporting Iran's ballistic missile program.

Shahab-2 and Shahab-3 missiles on display in southern Tehran. Photo: AFP

US President Donald Trump on May 17 eased sanctions on Iran under the 2015 nuclear deal, even as he imposed new sanctions targeting individuals in Iran and China.

"China opposes the blind use of unilateral sanctions, especially when it harms the interests of third parties. I think sanctions are not helpful in promoting mutual trust, not helpful to international efforts on this issue,"Hua Chunying, spokeswoman for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, said today.

According to Ms. Hoa, China has complied with local laws and regulations and strictly adhered to its responsibilities to the international community."China has made diplomatic representations to the US and hopes that the US side can resolve non-proliferation issues through dialogue and communication, based on the principle of mutual respect."

China has repeatedly protested against the United States' unilateral sanctions on individuals and companies involved in Iran or North Korea's weapons or missile programs.China has close economic and diplomatic ties with Iran, but also played a role in pushing for the landmark 2015 deal to curb Iran's nuclear program.

According to VNE