China Opposes New US Sanctions Regime on Ethiopia

ADDIS ABABA – China has opposed a U.S. threat to impose sanctions on Ethiopia over a conflict in the Horn of Africa nation, saying the government has the ability to resolve its own issues without foreign interference.

Spokesperson of Ministry of foreign affairs of China, Zhao Lijian told reporters in Beijing on Wednesday that China always holds that international law and basic norms governing international relations must be adhered to in state-to-state relations.

“We oppose the wanton exertion of pressure through sanctions or the threat of imposing sanctions to interfere in other countries’ internal affairs,” he underlined.

Furthermore, he noted that the US should prudently handle relevant issues and play a constructive role in restoring peace and stability in the country.

The Spokesperson described Ethiopia as China’s important cooperation partner in Africa.

“We believe that the parties concerned in Ethiopia have the wisdom and capability to properly resolve internal differences. It is our sincere hope that Ethiopia could realize national reconciliation and restore peace and stability at an early date,” he said.

Agencies