Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirms that it will suspend acceptance of meat products import declarations by 4 Australian companies
China News Service, Beijing, May 12 (Huang Yuqin, Li Jingze) Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said at a regular press conference on the 12th that in order to protect the health and safety of Chinese consumers, China decided to suspend the acceptance of meat from 4 Australian companies from now on Import declaration of similar products.
A reporter questioned that according to Chinese customs news, China included four Australian beef exporters on the import ban list, but did not inform the reason. Can the Ministry of Foreign Affairs tell us what the reason is? The Chinese ambassador to Australia had previously mentioned that the Chinese people expressed dissatisfaction with Australia ’s efforts to promote “independent international review” of the source of the epidemic and may be reluctant to purchase Australian beef. The outside world believes this is China ’s “economic coercion” against Australia. Is this related to restrictions on Australian beef imports?
Zhao Lijian said that it is understood that during the inspection of imported meat products, China Customs has continuously found that multiple batches of Australian beef products exported to China by individual Australian companies violated the inspection and quarantine requirements jointly determined by the competent authorities of both parties. In order to protect the health and safety of Chinese consumers, China has decided to suspend the acceptance of import declarations for meat products from four Australian companies from now on, and has notified the Australian authorities to require the Australian side to thoroughly investigate the reasons and make corrections.
"As for your mention of the Chinese Ambassador ’s position in Australia, I would like to emphasize that China always adheres to the development of friendly and cooperative relations with other countries on the basis of mutual respect and equality. I also recommend that you read the Chinese Embassy The original text of the ambassador ’s interview. The Chinese ambassador ’s position is a concern about the recent wrongdoing and deeds of Australia that has caused dissatisfaction with the Chinese people and concerns about the possible impact on the relationship between the two countries. I do n’t know where to start talking about 'economic coercion'? "
He pointed out that as for Australia ’s promotion of the so-called “independent international review” of the epidemic, we have introduced China ’s position many times before. It is clear all over the world that the source and spread of viruses requires scientific research by medical professionals. Using the epidemic situation to engage in political manipulation will only interfere with international epidemic prevention and control cooperation, and it will also be unpopular.
Zhao Lijian further emphasized that under the current situation where the new coronary pneumonia epidemic has caused an overall impact on the world economy, China is willing to strengthen cooperation with all countries in the world, help each other, overcome difficulties, and contribute to the health and well-being of all mankind. We also hope that other countries can work with China to do more things that are conducive to international cooperation and enhance mutual trust, rather than saying one thing to do one thing. (Finish)