China urges US to ensure fair treatment for foreign companies amid TikTok ban

The Chinese Foreign Ministry has called on the United States to ensure fair and equal treatment for companies from around the world, particularly in the context of the ongoing ban on the TikTok app.

In a statement issued on January 20, spokesperson Mao Ning urged US authorities to adopt open, equitable, and non-discriminatory conditions for foreign companies operating within the US market, Caliber.Az reports citing Russian media.

Mao emphasized that American users highly value TikTok, noting the platform’s positive impact, particularly in stimulating consumption in the United States.

Mao's comments came in response to the US Supreme Court's recent unanimous decision to uphold federal legislation aimed at banning TikTok. The ruling comes amid ongoing national security concerns surrounding the app, owned by the Chinese company ByteDance.

While the decision to enact the ban is now in the hands of the incoming US administration, the legislation mandates that ByteDance divest its ownership of TikTok, or the platform will face a complete ban in the US.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry's remarks reflect ongoing tensions between the US and China regarding the future of TikTok, as both nations navigate issues related to technology, privacy, and security.

By Vafa Guliyeva