Measurement of the European Block is part of a sanction package against the war in Ukraine; China promises response against the penalty
The European Union included 2 Chinese banks on the last list of sanctions imposed against Russia because of the war in Ukraine. The European bloc says Chinese institutions facilitated transactions with Russians to help them circumvent other economic sanctions. Here of the document (PDF – 780 KB).
O BRural Commercial Anco de Suifenhe and the Rural Comercial Bank of Heihe are two small banking institutions in China and operate in border regions with Russia. This is the first time Chinese banks are sanctioned by the EU due to the war in Ukraine.
The announcement of the EU sanctions package was made on Friday (18.Jul.2025). On the same day, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesman, Lin Jian, was asked by journalists about which measures would be adopted by the Chinese government against the sanction.
Jian stated that the government still needs to understand the decision of the European bloc, but said measures to protect the interests of Chinese companies against foreign stocks can be taken.
The spokesman repeated the Chinese government’s speech about the country’s accusations that he helps Russia in the confrontation. He stated that China has a firm position to seek a resolution for dialogue and has never provided weapons to either side.
“Normal exchanges and cooperation between Chinese and Russian companies should not be disturbed or affected. We ask the European Union to stop undermine the legitimate interests of Chinese companies without factual basis. China will take the necessary measures to safeguard the rights and legitimate interests of Chinese companies.”said the spokesman.
