The diplomat called the US decision a gross interference in the country's internal affairs and a serious violation of the basic norms of international relations.
He emphasized that Beijing "rejects and condemns this."
“China has decided to retaliate against US citizens and organizations for inappropriate behavior regarding issues related to Xinjiang,” RIA Novosti quoted Lijiang as saying.
Earlier, the United States imposed sanctions against the public security department of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region (XUAR) of China for "human rights violations." Restrictive measures are introduced on the basis of the Global Magnitsky Act.
Washington accuses Beijing of oppressing Uyghurs and other Muslim groups and argues that the Hong Kong bill to protect Hong Kong is being drafted by the Chinese parliament to eliminate its high autonomy. Chinese authorities deny the allegations.