China responded to the new tariffs imposed by the United States, warning that it "will resist to the end" if Chinese interests continue to be harmed. The spokesman for the Chinese Foreign Ministry reiterated the country's strong opposition to the U.S. decision to use fentanyl as an excuse to impose more tariffs on Chinese exports. According to the spokesman, to resolve the fentanyl issue, the U.S. should negotiate with China on equal and respectful terms.
Regarding statements from the Chinese Embassy in the United States about China's willingness for any type of war, the Chinese spokesman stated that he had not seen them but maintained that the country has made its position clear. The U.S. was urged to abandon intimidation and return to dialogue and cooperation. The Chinese government defended in a public document the strict measures taken against the production and trafficking of fentanyl and its chemical precursors.
China has increased its military spending by 7.2%, reaching $245.6 billion, despite being the third consecutive increase and the U.S. proposal to cut military budgets of major powers. The Chinese Premier assured that the country will maintain its efforts to improve its combat readiness and safeguard its national sovereignty, setting aside any possible military reduction negotiations with Russia.
These increases in military spending coincide with tensions in the South China Sea, military exercises, and attention focused on Taiwan. China opposes separatist activities and external interference, advancing the cause of reunification. Chinese President Xi Jinping has emphasized the need to modernize the Chinese Army to reduce the gap with the U.S. and prepare for possible confrontations, while overseeing the meeting to map out the country's roadmap.
