China vows to defend firms after new US sanctions over Iran ties

China has pledged to defend the interests of its companies following the latest US sanctions imposed under allegations of links to Iran, Chinese Foreign Ministry stated.

Speaking at a press briefing, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Beijing would take steps to protect Chinese enterprises affected by the measures, Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

“China will firmly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of its enterprises,” Guo stated while commenting on Washington’s recent sanctions targeting 12 individuals and entities allegedly connected to Iran.

According to US authorities, several of the sanctioned entities were companies based in Hong Kong that were allegedly involved in the supply of Iranian oil to China.

Guo reiterated Beijing’s opposition to what it described as unlawful unilateral sanctions lacking legal foundation and authorization from the United Nations Security Council.

By Vafa Guliyeva