(ANSA) - BEIJING, FEBRUARY 27 - China has formally protested against the latest round of US sanctions on its companies suspected of having relations with the Russian army, expressing "firm opposition" and promising adequate countermeasures.
"We regret and reject the move," Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said in the daily briefing, urging the United States to withdraw the unilateral sanctions.
"China will continue to take the necessary measures to firmly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises," Mao added.
China "has always maintained communication with all parties involved in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, including Kiev."
This is what Foreign Ministry spokeswoman MaoNing replied to a question about President VolodymyrZelensky's willingness to hold talks with China.
While on another question about Zelensky's intention to meet Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping, Mao said that "China's position on the Ukrainian crisis is consistent and very clear. It is essential to ask for peace and promote dialogue and a political solution to the crisis. We have always maintained communication with the parties, including Ukraine".
(HANDLE).