China, one of Iran's biggest oil export markets, on Monday criticised Washington's decision to tell Beijing and other governments to stop buying crude from Tehran or face sanctions.
China opposes Washington's "unilateral sanctions and long-arm jurisdiction," said a foreign ministry spokesman, Geng Shuang. He said Beijing's dealings with Iran are "reasonable and legitimate."
US officials told reporters the Trump administration will inform other governments they no longer will be exempt from sanctions.
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China, which relies on imports for about half of its oil, could present the toughest diplomatic challenge in trying to enforce the Trump administration's ambition of driving down Iran's oil exports.
Beijing has supported global efforts to curb the spread of nuclear weapons technology. But it rejects unilateral US action and previously opposed linking trade to Iran's nuclear program.
The communist government will "protect the legitimate rights" of its companies, Geng said. He gave no indication what China might do if Washington goes ahead with sanctions.
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