By Sherwin Bryce-Pease

US President Donald Trump’s latest executive orders have ignited fears of a global trade war, triggering volatility in international markets.

In an outspoken response, China’s United Nations Ambassador, FU Cong, criticised the US tariffs, describing them as a breach of World Trade Organization (WTO) rules. “This is a violation of international trade agreements,” he asserted, confirming that China would pursue legal action through the WTO and potentially retaliate. He underscored that a trade war would benefit neither side, urging the US to turn inward and address its own challenges rather than exacerbating global instability.

Trump’s tariffs were largely justified on the grounds of tackling the illicit fentanyl trade, which the US claims is primarily sourced from China. However, Cong rejected the accusation, asserting that China has implemented rigorous controls on fentanyl and related substances. He questioned the US approach, suggesting the issue lies more with demand within the US than with China’s policies.

Cong also responded to recent Panama-related tensions, where accusations of Chinese control over the Panama Canal have surfaced. He firmly rejected the allegations, affirming that China respects Panama’s sovereignty and the canal’s neutral, international status.

Amid the rising tensions, Cong warned that global cooperation on issues like climate change and counter-terrorism should take precedence, as opposed to divisive technological bans, which he argued are counterproductive.

--ChannelAfrica--