BEIJING - China is strongly dissatisfied with and firmly opposes Canada's recent sanctions that target Chinese firms, the Ministry of Commerce said Wednesday.

In response to an inquiry regarding Canada's announcement to impose sanctions on 76 foreign entities and individuals, including 20 Chinese enterprises, for allegedly providing dual-use items to Russia, a spokesperson with the ministry said that China has consistently opposed unilateral sanctions lacking a basis in international law and authorization from the United Nations Security Council.

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China stresses that relevant countries, in addressing the Ukraine issue, must not harm the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises, institutions, and individuals, including their rights to engage in normal trade, investment, and financial cooperation, the spokesperson noted.

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The spokesperson highlighted that Canada's unilateral sanctions against Chinese enterprises undermine international economic and trade rules and orders, and jeopardize the security and stability of global industrial and supply chains.

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China urges Canada to immediately stop its erroneous actions, said the spokesperson, adding that it will take necessary measures to resolutely defend the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises.