Beijing Targets 7 European Firms As EU Russia Sanctions Hit Chinese Companies

"The firms, which operate in the defense, aerospace, and satellite intelligence industries, include the Belgian-based firearms manufacturer FN Herstal. The announcement comes a day after the EU formally adopted its 20th sanctions package against Russia, targeting firms in third countries, including China, over Moscow's war in Ukraine."

"The EU sanctions package will also place export restrictions on a further 60 entities that 'contribute to the technological enhancement of Russia's defense sector,' some of which are located in mainland China and Hong Kong."

"According to a ministry spokesperson, the entities were targeted because of their participation 'in arms sales to Taiwan' or 'collusion' with Taiwanese authorities. Beijing considers the self-governing island to be part of its territory."

Beijing's Commerce Ministry announced the inclusion of seven European Union companies on an export control list, primarily from the defense and aerospace sectors. This action follows the EU's latest sanctions package against Russia, which targets entities in third countries, including China. The EU aims to prevent Russia from bypassing sanctions through nations like China and the UAE. The sanctioned companies will be prohibited from importing dual-use items from China, with the measures justified by Beijing as necessary for national security and related to arms sales to Taiwan.

Read at RadioFreeEurope/RadioLiberty