China Responds to Global Developments:At the July 28, 2025 press conference, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun addressed critical global developments, including the U.S. threat of 50% tariffs on Brazil, Ukraine’s sanctions on Chinese entities, Taiwan’s diplomatic outreach to Japan, and Hong Kong’s arrest warrants against overseas dissidents. He also commented on China’s mediation in the Cambodia-Thailand border conflict, the detention of Chinese scholars in the U.S., ongoing China-U.S. trade talks in Sweden, and recent geopolitical and trade moves involving the EU and Panama. China reaffirmed its commitment to sovereignty, multilateralism, and fair global trade.
China Responds to Global Developments
Beijing, July 28, 2025 — In a comprehensive press conference on July 28, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun responded to a series of escalating global developments, ranging from the United States’ new trade threats to regional tensions in Asia and Europe. The spokesperson addressed journalists from across the globe, offering China’s official positions on key diplomatic and economic issues.
U.S. Threatens 50% Tariffs on Brazil
Reacting to reports that the U.S. government is threatening to impose 50% tariffs on Brazil starting August 1, a move perceived as a warning to other Latin American and BRICS nations, Guo Jiakun reiterated Chinese opposition to unilateral tariffs. “Tariff wars have no winners,” he stated, emphasizing China’s commitment to work alongside Brazil and other Latin American and BRICS countries to uphold the WTO-centered multilateral trading system and global fairness.
On the topic of aviation cooperation with Brazil, he reaffirmed China’s commitment to “result-oriented cooperation,” expressing willingness to enhance partnerships in aviation based on market principles to support mutual development.
Ukraine’s Sanctions on Chinese Individuals and Entities
In response to Ukraine’s announcement of a fresh sanctions package targeting 53 individuals and entities, including Chinese nationals, Guo strongly condemned such unilateral actions. “We urge the Ukrainian side to correct its mistake at once,” he said, calling the move unjustified and lacking legal basis. He emphasized China’s determination to protect the legitimate rights of Chinese companies.
Japan-Taiwan Relations Draw Chinese Ire
China expressed strong opposition to a “private” trip to Japan by Lin Chia-lung, head of Taiwan’s foreign affairs department. Guo accused Japan of providing a platform for Taiwan’s “separatist” activities and stated that the visit seriously violated diplomatic norms and the four political documents between China and Japan.
He reminded Japan of its historical responsibilities, especially as this year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory over Japanese aggression and the restoration of Taiwan. Guo urged Tokyo not to underestimate the resolve of the Chinese people in safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Hong Kong’s Arrest Warrants for Overseas Dissidents
The Hong Kong police recently issued arrest warrants for 19 individuals associated with an overseas subversive group called the “Hong Kong Parliament.” While some foreign governments criticized the move, Guo defended the action, calling it lawful and necessary.
“These individuals attempted to subvert state power and endanger national security,” he said. Chinese, he insisted, supports the Hong Kong SAR in upholding the rule of law. He added that Hong Kong affairs are purely internal matters and warned other nations to refrain from interfering.
Mediation in Cambodia-Thailand Border Conflict
When asked about Chinese role in the Cambodia-Thailand border conflict, Guo confirmed that China has engaged both sides and supports a peaceful resolution. He emphasized that both countries are China’s neighbors and friends and urged restraint and dialogue.
Guo praised ASEAN’s role in mediation efforts and said that China will maintain communication with both sides to support a ceasefire and restoration of peace.
Detention of Chinese Scholars in the U.S.
Guo criticized recent U.S. actions against Chinese scholars, describing the detentions as politically driven and discriminatory. He accused Washington of using national security as a pretext to harass Chinese researchers and warned that such practices harm China-U.S. cultural and educational exchanges.
He urged the U.S. to fulfill its stated commitments to welcome Chinese students and scholars and advised Chinese nationals in the U.S. to remain alert to risks.
China-U.S. Trade Talks in Sweden
As trade talks between China and the U.S. were set to begin in Sweden, Guo confirmed China’s consistent stance on economic dialogue. He expressed hope for meaningful outcomes based on mutual respect and equality.
He commented on reports that the U.S. may freeze new export controls on Chinese entities as a goodwill gesture, saying that both nations should strive for more consensus and less misperception. China, he said, remains committed to promoting stable and mutually beneficial trade relations.
Response to Taiwan’s Failed Recall Vote
On the failed recall vote against opposition Kuomintang lawmakers in Taiwan, Guo said the result reflects the people’s will and criticized the ruling Democratic Progressive Party’s political manipulation. He reiterated that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China and that the Taiwan question is a matter of internal sovereignty.
China’s Stance on U.S.-EU Trade Deal
Responding to comments that the EU’s recent trade deal with the U.S. was suboptimal, Guo emphasized that any deal struck at the expense of China’s interests is unacceptable. He reiterated that all trade differences should be resolved through dialogue and in adherence to WTO rules.
Panama Canal Deal Involving CK Hutchison
On news that CK Hutchison plans to bring in a major Chinese investor to participate in a consortium involving the U.S. for ports in the Panama Canal, Guo said the Chinese government will ensure national interests are protected while supporting justice and fairness in international market practices.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on publicly available statements made by Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun during the official press conference held on July 28, 2025. The content is intended for informational and journalistic purposes only. While efforts have been made to accurately represent the spokesperson’s comments, readers are advised to consult official government releases for precise language and context. The views expressed by the spokesperson do not reflect the views or endorsement of this blog or its editorial team.