China opposes new US sanctions regarding Iran

Beijing expressed on Monday its strong opposition to US sanctions imposed on three China-based companies that Washington accuses of aiding Iran in its military operations, describing these measures as illegal and unilateral. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said in a regular press conference, "We have always asked Chinese companies to conduct their business in accordance with laws and regulations, and we will firmly protect the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies." He added, "The urgent priority is to prevent a return to fighting by all means, instead of using war for a malicious linking of other countries to the matter and tarnishing their reputation," according to Reuters. Earlier, China ordered oil refineries buying crude from Iran not to comply with or apply US sanctions imposed on Iranian oil, according to a CNN report.