During the March 19, 2025 press conference, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning addressed U.S. visa restrictions on Cuba, the Ukraine crisis, Sino-Japanese relations, and deep-sea mining with Kiribati. He emphasized Cuba’s humanitarian work, condemned U.S. sanctions, encouraged dialogue for peace, and reiterated China’s commitment to historical reflection in relations with Japan.
On March 19, 2025, during a regular press conference, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning commented on various international issues. Mao expressed China’s stance on U.S. visa restrictions impacting Cuba’s medical missions, emphasizing Cuba’s humanitarian contributions over the past 60 years, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. He condemned the labeling of Cuban medical missions as “forced labor”, declaring it a misleading narrative and urging the U.S. to cease its sanctions against Cuba.
In response to the recent telephone conversation between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump regarding normalization of relations and the Ukraine crisis, Mao reiterated China’s position advocating dialogue and negotiations as essential for resolving the situation. He welcomed any efforts geared towards ceasefire agreements.
On questions regarding Chinese firms engaging in petroleum activities in Russia-occupied Ukraine, Mao Ning stated he was unfamiliar with specific details but confirmed that China holds a consistent stance based on principles outlined by President Xi Jinping.
Regarding Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s visit to the U.S. and Japan’s opposition to Chinese activities in the Taiwan Strait, Mao declared that the Taiwan issue is strictly an internal matter for China and urged Japan to exercise caution given its history. He expressed hope for improvement in China-Japan relations and collaboration towards mutual benefit.
Mao affirmed that China’s deep-sea mining collaboration with Kiribati complies with international law and is predicated on mutual respect and benefits. Regarding a Thai government delegation’s visit to Xinjiang to meet deported Uyghurs, he advised consulting relevant authorities for specifics while affirming that China ensures the lawful protection of rights.
Lastly, on the 80th anniversary of the defeat of Japanese aggression against China, Mao urged Japan to acknowledge its historical responsibilities and to work towards a peaceful and cooperative future with China. He expressed that true progress in relations can only be achieved through mutual respect and understanding of history.
In summary, the press conference highlighted China’s positions on key international matters including U.S. visa restrictions against Cuba, the Ukraine crisis, China-Japan relations, deep-sea mining partnerships, and the historical context of the China-Japan relationship. Spokesperson Mao Ning stressed the importance of dialogue, mutual respect, and constructive engagement in addressing these issues, advocating for peace and cooperation in international relations.
Original Source: za.china-embassy.gov.cn
