Kathmandu— China has voiced strong opposition to the United States’ plans for increased sanctions against Iran, with a foreign ministry spokesperson describing Washington's approach of “economic asphyxiation” as counterproductive and destabilizing. Speaking at a regular news briefing on Tuesday, Lin Jian stated that unilateral sanctions lacking UN Security Council authorization are illegal under international law and harm global economic order. China maintains its cooperation with Iran is lawful and will defend its own interests amid escalating tensions.

U.S. Sanctions Plan

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent recently announced plans to expand secondary sanctions targeting Iran, threatening countries that do not participate in the campaign against Tehran. The stated goal is to exert maximum economic pressure on Iran, a strategy described by Bessent as aiming for the “economic asphyxiation” of the country.

China’s Opposition

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian firmly rejected the U.S. approach, reiterating China's long-standing opposition to unilateral sanctions. He emphasized that such measures lack a legal basis and are not authorized by the UN Security Council. According to Lin, economic warfare and maximum pressure tactics do not resolve problems but instead escalate tensions and create risks for the global economy.

Call for Dialogue

Lin urged de-escalation of the situation and a return to dialogue and negotiation as quickly as possible. He stated that China’s cooperation with Iran is conducted within the bounds of international law and should not be interfered with. The spokesperson also indicated that China will take necessary steps to protect its legitimate rights and interests.

Global Economic Concerns

Lin warned that Washington's policies disrupt the global economic and financial order, and undermine the legitimate rights and interests of other countries. He suggested these actions create spillover risks beyond the immediate parties involved.

China indicated it is closely monitoring developments related to U.S. sanctions on Iran and will act to protect its own interests.

(With inputs from Xinhua)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.