Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang. It followed an accusation by Chinese leader Xi Jinping that Western governments led by the United States were trying to encircle and suppress China. China’s relations with Washington and Japan, India and other Asian neighbours have soured as Xi’s government has pursued assertive policies abroad. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs accused the US of “politicising the issue” in an attempt to discredit China. “Why does the US ask China not to provide weapons to Russia, while it keeps selling arms to Taiwan?” Qin asked.

Source: New Zealand Herald March 09, 2023 03:51 UTC