The US Government decided，starting from 1st September，to impose sanctions, against China under the pretext of the so-called export of missile-related items to Pakistan by the China Metallurgical Equipment Corporation (MECC). We cannot but express our strong indignation and resolute opposition to America's hegemonic act of willfully imposing sanctions on other countries according to its domestic laws. The Chinese Government has made solemn representations on this matter with the U.S. Government.

Over a period of time, the United States has repeatedly alleged that MECC was engaged in missile proliferation activities according to its so-called "intelligence information". In-depth investigations by the Chinese side indicate that MECC has never engaged in any activities whatsoever alleged by the United States and the U.S. allegation is groundless. However, the U.S. side is bent on making the above erroneous decision based on its wrong intelligence information, in disregard of the constructive position and the investigation results of the Chinese side. Such a U.S. move is totally groundless and irresponsible, which the Chinese side can never accept.

On the issue of non-proliferation, the Chinese policy is consistent and clear-cut. Last November, China and the United States announced respectively their policies on missile non-proliferation and Sino-US cooperation on space launching. China has all along strictly fulfilled its own commitment. However, the U.S. side not only failed to honour its own commitment, but also decided to impose sanctions on China out of nowhere. This can not but make us doubt the sincerity of the United States in honoring the relevant bilateral understandings.

The improvement and development of Sino-US relations is in the common interest of the two sides and calls for joint efforts.  China strongly urges the US side to immediately withdraw its wrong decision, so as to avoid any damage to Sino-US cooperation in non-proliferation. Otherwise, the American side should bear all the responsibilities for the consequences arising therefrom.