China Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian addressed key global issues at the July 16, 2025, press conference, including Croatia’s upcoming diplomatic visit, tensions with Japan over an espionage case, criticism from the U.S. on China’s role in the UN, and NATO’s pressure tactics related to Russia. The session also covered preparations for the SCO summit, the resumption of China-EU legislative exchanges, China’s position on the U.S.-Indonesia trade deal, and the launch of the China International Supply Chain Expo. Lin reiterated China’s support for peace in the Middle East and called for dialogue over coercion in global conflicts.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry’s press conference on July 16, 2025, led by spokesperson Lin Jian, underscored the country’s expanding diplomatic engagements and responses to rising global tensions. From European partnerships to Middle Eastern ceasefires and supply chain innovations, Beijing’s messaging highlighted a consistent push for dialogue, cooperation, and high-standard development.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties with Croatia
Lin Jian opened the briefing by announcing the upcoming visit of Croatia’s Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, Gordan Grlić Radman, from July 20 to 22. The visit, at the invitation of Wang Yi, signals efforts to deepen strategic coordination. The two countries share a long-standing relationship, reinforced through the Belt and Road Initiative and cooperation within Central and Eastern Europe. The goal of the visit includes enhancing economic collaboration, aligning national development strategies, and increasing people-to-people exchanges.
Espionage Case Involving Japanese National
In response to Japan’s criticism over the sentencing of one of its nationals for espionage, Lin emphasized that the judicial process was handled strictly in accordance with the law. Consular access was granted under international agreements, and the defendant’s rights were protected. While Tokyo termed the ruling “regrettable,” Beijing reaffirmed its support for lawful business activities and assured that foreign individuals operating within legal bounds have no cause for concern.
Pushback Against US Criticism at the UN
Lin responded to statements made by Mike Waltz, the nominee for US Ambassador to the United Nations, who claimed the country is exerting “malicious influence” within the UN system. Labeling the remarks as rooted in Cold War ideology, Lin urged Washington to approach bilateral relations with objectivity rather than confrontation. The message was clear: cooperation, not containment, should define global diplomacy.
Concerns Over Australia’s Investment Rules
Premier Li Qiang recently voiced concern over Australia’s foreign investment screening during talks with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Lin reiterated that trade and investment serve as a stabilizing factor in bilateral relations. Both governments, he said, should strive for a transparent and non-discriminatory environment to ensure mutual growth and trust among investors.
Progress Through the Shanghai Cooperation Organization
A major highlight of the day was the recap of the July 15 Meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), hosted in Tianjin. President Xi Jinping addressed the foreign ministers, urging the SCO to play a constructive role amid a turbulent global climate. He called for unity, the upholding of founding principles, and commitment to regional peace.
Foreign Minister Wang Yi proposed five key initiatives:
- Upholding the Shanghai Spirit
- Reinforcing collective security
- Deepening economic partnerships
- Promoting regional harmony
- Safeguarding global fairness and justice
The upcoming SCO Summit, scheduled for August 31 to September 1 in Tianjin, is expected to build on these foundations.
Thaw in China-EU Legislative Ties
Lin confirmed that exchanges between legislative bodies have resumed with the European Union, including the lifting of restrictions on former EU lawmaker Reinhard Buetikofer. After a period of friction, this move signals renewed willingness from both sides to engage in constructive dialogue and promote mutual understanding.
Trade Deal Between the US and Indonesia
Commenting on the recent US-Indonesia trade agreement that imposes tariffs on Indonesian exports while waiving duties on US goods, Lin emphasized the need for fairness in trade relations. He called for resolution of trade disputes through dialogue, reflecting the broader stance on maintaining balance and cooperation in international commerce.
Rejection of NATO’s Pressure Tactics
Responding to NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte’s call for China, India, and Brazil to pressure Moscow over possible secondary sanctions from Washington, Lin reiterated Beijing’s position. He condemned unilateral measures and long-arm jurisdiction, stating that only dialogue can lead to resolution in the ongoing Ukraine conflict. Coercion, he said, is ineffective and counterproductive.
Launch of Major Trade Exhibitions
In a bid to highlight its economic resilience and openness, the nation inaugurated the third China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) in Beijing. This edition, the first to be held in summer, showcases over 650 companies, with foreign exhibitors comprising 35%—half from Europe and the US. The event promotes sustainable innovation, and for the first time, the venue is powered entirely by green electricity.
Additional expos this season include the Western China International Fair and the China-South Asia Expo. These initiatives represent a broader push toward high-standard opening up. Recent trade data also showed that the nation’s total import and export volume exceeded 21 trillion yuan in the first half of 2025—a record high.
Ongoing Crisis in the Middle East
As tensions rise in the Middle East amid an uncertain ceasefire between Iran and Israel, Beijing reaffirmed its readiness to promote peace. Lin mentioned that this issue was discussed at the recent SCO meeting, and emphasized China’s commitment to a political resolution. The country remains prepared to work alongside international partners to ensure stability and dialogue across the region.
The July 16 press conference offered a clear look at Beijing’s priorities across diplomacy, trade, and security. Whether through building bridges with Croatia and the European Union, responding to strategic challenges from the United States and NATO, or supporting regional peace, the message remained focused on development through cooperation. As global uncertainty grows, the nation’s assertive yet diplomatic tone signals its intent to shape a more interconnected and stable world order.