Beijing: China on Tuesday expressed 'deep concern' over a drone attack targeting the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant in the United Arab Emirates on Saturday. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun emphasized that Beijing opposes any attacks on peaceful nuclear facilities. He stressed the importance of respecting the sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity of Gulf states, highlighting the need to protect civilians and non-military facilities. Guo called for an immediate ceasefire, noting that preventing further escalation remains the top priority.
According to Anadolu Agency, Guo also commented on Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to China, taking place from Tuesday to Wednesday. He mentioned that Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping are set to discuss bilateral relations, cooperation, and various international and regional issues. Guo described the relationship between China and Russia as one of 'comprehensive strategic cooperative partners of coordination in the new era.'
In response to inquiries about reports of a discussion between Xi and US President Donald Trump on artificial intelligence regulation during their summit talks last week, Guo confirmed that the two leaders agreed to establish an intergovernmental dialogue on AI. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between China and the US, as leading AI powers, to promote development and enhance the governance of AI for social progress and the welfare of the international community.
Addressing reports of a drone strike on a Chinese-owned vessel near Ukraine's Odesa, Guo stated that the ship, registered in the Marshall Islands, carried a Chinese crew, though no Chinese casualties have been confirmed, according to the Chinese Embassy in Ukraine. On the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, he reiterated that 'dialogue and negotiation is the only viable way out.'
Guo also criticized recent US sanctions targeting Cuba's intelligence agency and nine Cuban nationals, expressing China's opposition to 'illicit unilateral sanctions that have no basis in international law.' He affirmed Beijing's 'firm support' for Cuba in safeguarding its national sovereignty and security, urging the US to end its blockade and all forms of coercive pressure against Havana.
Finally, Guo issued a warning to the Philippines regarding its remarks on Taiwan. Following comments by Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on the potential impact of a conflict involving Taiwan due to geographic proximity and the presence of nearly 200,000 Filipinos on the island, Guo stated that proximity should not justify interference in another country's internal affairs. He urged the Philippines to honor its commitments, align its words with actions, and abide by the one-China principle with concrete actions.