China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi Vows to Counter US Pressure on Fentanyl
China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi declared that the nation will counter US pressure regarding fentanyl, highlighting shared interests and advocating for cooperative global governance. He emphasized China’s stable role amidst geopolitical challenges, reaffirmed its partnership with Russia, and called on developing nations to improve their representation in international affairs. Wang criticized US actions and sought a fair resolution to the Ukraine conflict as part of China’s constructive diplomatic approach.
On Friday, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi announced that China would “resolutely counter” pressure from the United States regarding the fentanyl crisis. His remarks occurred during a briefing at China’s annual parliamentary meeting and highlighted China’s commitment to portraying itself as a stable global influence amidst ongoing geopolitical instability. This declaration was positioned as part of an appeal to developing nations in the Global South, amid increasing pressures imposed by the US.
Tension escalated when Washington implemented an additional 10 percent tariff on Chinese imports due to the persistent inflow of fentanyl, a potent opioid, into the United States. This tariff action threatens to exacerbate an already tense trade relationship, not only impacting China but also affecting Canada and Mexico. Wang Yi emphasized that the United States should address its own issues with fentanyl rather than placing the burden solely on China, stating, “If one side blindly exerts pressure, China will resolutely counter that.”
Wang Yi pointed out the importance of recognizing the shared interests between the US and China, cautioning against expecting cooperation while simultaneously exerting pressure. He noted, “No country can imagine that it can suppress China on one hand while developing good relations with China on the other hand,” underscoring a need for mutual respect and dialogue between the two nations. He also criticized the US for imposing tariffs without justification, reminding that China has historically supported the United States on fentanyl-related matters.
Turning to technology and innovation, Wang Yi expressed optimism regarding US-China competition, suggesting that hindrances would only lead to breakthroughs in innovation. He said, “Where there is a blockade, there is a breakthrough, and where there is suppression, there is innovation.” Furthermore, Wang highlighted China’s aspirations for resolving the Ukraine conflict, advocating for a “fair, lasting and binding peace agreement” that aligns with the interests of all involved parties and expresses a willingness to play a constructive role.
China’s strong ties with Russia were also reaffirmed, as Wang depicted China-Russia relations as stable amidst global turmoil. He reiterated this notion, stating, “China-Russia relations are a constant in a turbulent world, not a variable in geopolitical games.” President Xi Jinping’s commitment to a strong partnership with Russia illustrates Beijing’s diplomatic stance, particularly in reference to the ongoing Ukraine crisis.
Urging support for developing nations, Wang Yi called on these countries to enhance their representation in global governance. He warned against an international landscape where powerful nations disregard their responsibilities, cautioning that if each country prioritizes self-interest over cooperation, the global order might regress to a place where the vulnerable suffer most. He lamented that major powers should not exploit their strength but should uphold international obligations instead, indicating concern over unilateral actions from the US administration.
In summary, Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s statements reflect China’s determination to resist United States pressure regarding fentanyl and trade matters. He emphasized the importance of mutual respect in international relations and recognized the need for cooperation while also advocating for developing nations. Furthermore, Wang underscored the steadfastness of China’s relationship with Russia amidst global tensions and articulated a vision for a collaborative resolution to the Ukraine crisis. Ultimately, China seeks to assert its position as a responsible global power and advocate for equitable governance.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
