China criticizes US for having 'two-faced' policies

The Chinese Foreign Ministry has criticized the Trump administration for what it perceives as unfair penalties on Beijing, claiming that these actions overlook China's attempts to be a dependable partner on the global stage.

The ministry accused President Donald Trump's administration of employing “two-faced” policies and expressed its intent to “resolutely counter” the escalating sanctions pressure as tensions between the two major economies persist.

Since Trump's inauguration, the US has increased tariffs on all Chinese imports from 10% to 20%, adding to previously imposed duties on numerous Chinese goods. Recently, the US president also mandated new tariffs on imports from China, Mexico, and Canada, emphasizing the necessity to safeguard American interests while addressing trade imbalances, illegal immigration, and the influx of illegal drugs into the United States.

At China’s annual parliamentary meeting on Friday, Foreign Minister Wang Yi criticized Washington for enforcing punitive tariffs despite what he described as Beijing’s commitment to functioning as a reliable global partner, particularly in addressing America’s fentanyl crisis.

“If one side blindly exerts pressure, China will resolutely counter that,” Wang cautioned. “No country can imagine that it can suppress China on one hand while developing good relations with China on the other hand.”

In response, the Chinese government has enacted additional tariffs between 10% and 15% on various American products, encompassing agricultural items and energy commodities. Furthermore, Beijing has implemented export and investment restrictions on 25 US firms and lodged a complaint with the World Trade Organization, asserting that US tariffs contravene international trade norms. China has encouraged the US to address its concerns through dialogue.

Wang asserted that the US “should not repay kindness with grievances, let alone impose tariffs without reason,” alluding to the “various assistance” Beijing has offered to limit the flow of fentanyl precursors into the US. The US has accused China of providing chemicals that facilitate the illegal manufacture of the synthetic opioid.

In discussing the tech rivalry between the two nations, Wang noted that obstacles often lead to breakthroughs, while suppression fosters innovation. He also directed criticism at US policies, highlighting that major powers “should not bully the weak.”

US-China trade tensions intensified in 2018 during Trump's first term, when he imposed tariffs on Chinese goods in response to perceived unfair trade practices and intellectual property theft. This led to retaliation from Beijing, creating a cycle of measures that disrupted global markets and supply chains.

Aarav Patel for TROIB News

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