Beijing: China stands ready to work with the international community, including the European Union, to defend international trade rules, fairness and justice, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said.

According to Oman News Agency, Spokesperson Lin Jian made the remarks at a daily news briefing when asked to share more information on the communication and coordination between China and the EU on additional US tariffs. Lin criticized the US for using tariffs as a weapon to exert maximum pressure and seek selfish gains, highlighting the negative impacts of such unilateralism, protectionism, and economic bullying on the interests of China, the EU, and the global community.

Lin emphasized that as the second and third largest economies, China and the EU together account for over one third of the global economy and more than a quarter of global trade. Both sides are proponents of economic globalization and trade liberalization and are firm supporters of the WTO. Lin reiterated the EU's emphasis on stability and certainty for a healthy global economy, stressing the shared commitment to a fair, free, and WTO-centered multilateral trading system.

As part of its commitment, China has taken resolute measures to safeguard its legitimate interests and will continue to do so. Lin expressed China's readiness to enhance communication and coordination with the EU and the international community, aiming to share development opportunities, expand cooperation, and achieve mutual benefits. The spokesperson assured that China will defend international trade rules and justice alongside its partners.