China on Friday voiced firm opposition to attempts by Japan, the US and other countries to undermine the international economic and trade order through "small circle" rules.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Guo Jiakun made the remarks in response to a question at a routine press briefing in Beijing about the critical minerals partnership between Japan, the US and other countries.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun at a regular press conference in Beijing, January 17, 2025. (Photo: VCG)

It was the common interests of all countries to uphold an open, inclusive and non-discriminatory international trading environment, Guo said.

"All parties have the responsibility to play a constructive role in maintaining the stability and security of global industrial and supply chains of critical minerals," he said.

China has always opposed any country's attempt to disrupt the international economic and trade order with rules made by "small circles," Guo said.