In a strong response to recent US-imposed tariffs, a Chinese spokesperson emphasized that the root cause of the fentanyl issue lies within the United States itself.
Speaking on Tuesday, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated that the Chinese people are \"never been swayed by fallacies, deterred by intimidation or cowed by bullying.\" He criticized the US approach, describing the tariff hikes as a \"mistargeted and miscalculated approach\" to the fentanyl problem.
Lin highlighted China's efforts to assist the US in tackling fentanyl, noting that various sectors in the US have expressed gratitude towards China for its support. \"Instead of recognizing our effort, the U.S. has smeared and shifted blame onto China and pressured and blackmailed China with tariff hikes. They are punishing us for helping them,\" he added.
He urged the United States to adopt principles of equality, mutual respect, and mutual benefit, calling for constructive dialogue to address the issues at hand. \"If the U.S. has other agenda in mind and insists on waging a tariff war, trade war or whatever war, China will not flinch and is ready to make a due response,\" Lin warned.
The spokesperson concluded by appealing for the US to move away from domineering tactics and return to a path of dialogue and cooperation.
Reference(s):
Root cause of fentanyl issue in U.S., says China in response to smears
cgtn.com
