Synopsis
On February 5, the Chinese Foreign Ministry's spokesperson Lin Jian stated that pressure is not the appropriate method for the US to manage its relations with China, particularly in the context of the recently imposed tariffs over fentanyl-related concerns.Key Takeaways
- Pressure tactics are deemed ineffective.
- The US has imposed a 10% tariff on Chinese imports.
- Blame-shifting will not resolve the fentanyl crisis.
- Dialogue and consultation are essential.
- China has strict drug control policies.
Beijing, Feb 5 (NationPress) Using pressure is not the appropriate approach for the United States in managing its relationship with China, asserted Lin Jian, spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, on Wednesday. This statement comes in light of the additional 10 percent tariff imposed by the US on Chinese goods, citing concerns related to fentanyl.
Ignoring the positive outcomes of China-US collaboration in drug control, the US has persisted in enforcing this tariff on imports from China. Lin emphasized China's strong discontent and firm opposition to this action, stating that necessary measures have been taken to protect its legitimate rights and interests.
Lin pointed out that transferring blame to other nations will not solve the fentanyl crisis in the US, and that there are no winners in trade or tariff disputes.
He suggested that the correct course for the US would be to focus on reducing domestic drug demand and enhancing law enforcement collaboration.
On January 17, Lin noted, China's head of state held a phone conversation with then US President-elect Donald Trump at his request, establishing a principled consensus for mutually beneficial cooperation.
What is urgently needed now is not unilateral tariffs, but rather discussions and consultations based on equality and mutual respect, Lin added, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Lin also highlighted that China enforces some of the strictest drug control policies globally.
In 2019, China became the first nation to officially categorize fentanyl-related substances as a unique class, doing so for humanitarian reasons and at the behest of the United States.
In recent years, both countries have made significant strides in effective cooperation on drug control, including substance regulation, intelligence sharing, and case collaboration, yielding tangible results, according to the spokesperson.
