China Warns NATO Against Provoking Confrontation Over Ties with Russia
China has warned NATO against provoking confrontation over its ties with Russia after the Western military alliance accused Beijing of being a decisive enabler of Moscow's war against Ukraine. The warning came as NATO leaders meeting in Washington DC promised to bolster Ukraine and Europe's defenses against Russia and made clear that China was also becoming a focus of the alliance. A spokesperson for Beijing's mission to the European Union said NATO should stop hyping up the so-called China threat and provoking confrontation and rivalry and do more to contribute to world peace and stability. China, which has deepened strategic ties with Russia, has refused to condemn Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. It has presented itself as a neutral party in the war and says it is not sending lethal assistance to either side, unlike the US and other Western nations. Beijing, however, has offered a critical lifeline to Russia's isolated economy with trade booming since the conflict began. The 32 NATO members in their final communique expressed profound concern over Beijing's deepening partnership with Moscow, calling China a decisive enabler of Russia's war against Ukraine through its 'no limits' partnership and largescale support for Russia's defense industrial base. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg pointed out that China provides equipment, microelectronics, and tools that allow Russia to build the weapons they use to attack Ukraine. Stoltenberg stated that it was the first time all NATO allies had stated this clearly. Despite the criticism from NATO, Beijing's spokesperson dismissed the allegations, emphasizing China's stance on promoting peace talks and political settlement. NATO members expressed concerns over China's systemic challenges to Euro-Atlantic security, including malicious online activities and space capabilities. The summit also highlighted the importance of NATO's Asia-Pacific partners in addressing shared security interests. With NATO focusing on responding to China's increasing political and economic influence, the alliance is determined to strengthen dialogue and cooperation with Asia-Pacific partners to tackle cross-regional challenges. The projects planned between NATO and Asia-Pacific partners aim to enhance collaborative efforts on cybersecurity, countering disinformation, and advancing artificial intelligence to support Ukraine and address shared security concerns.
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