China on Wednesday urged the EU to stop abusing unilateral trade and economic tools and provide a fair, transparent, and non-discriminatory business environment.

Photo: China's foreign ministry
Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Lin Jian said at a regular press briefing in Beijing that the EU's frequent use of unilateral trade and economic tools to impose discriminatory and restrictive measures on Chinese companies sends a signal of protectionism, damages the EU's image, and undermines the confidence of Chinese companies investing in Europe.
Lin made the remarks when asked about the EU's launch of a probe into a Chinese clean energy company.
"We urge the EU to uphold its commitments to open markets and the principle of fair competition, stop abusing unilateral trade and economic tools, and provide a fair, transparent, and non-discriminatory business environment for companies from all countries," said Lin. "China firmly safeguards the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies."