Italy

In a tougher stance against China, G7 leaders on Friday (June 14) accused Beijing of supporting Russia in Ukraine war.

Advertisment

The leaders threatened additional sanctions on those who materially aid Russia's military efforts.

This strong warning emerged from the G7 summit in Italy. It coincides with increased US pressure on Europe to take a more forceful stance against China's support for Russia's military.

Also read: G7 Summit: Pope Francis urges ban on 'lethal autonomous weapons'

Advertisment

“China’s constant support for Russia’s defense industrial base is enabling Russia to maintain its unlawful war in Ukraine and has significant and broad-based security implications,” the G7 leaders said in a statement on Friday (June 14).

“We call on China to stop the transfer of dual-use materials, including weapons machinery and equipments that are useful for Russia’s defense sector," it added.

The joint statement further promised continued action against entities in China and other countries that aid Russia's military, including financial institutions and those helping Russia acquire defense supplies. 

Advertisment

They vowed to implement restrictions to prevent misuse and limit access to their financial systems.

Notably, American officials have accused China of helping Russia increase military manufacturing. Exports including semiconductors, materials and machine tools are allowing Moscow to ramp up production of tanks, munitions and armored vehicles.

Also read: G7 summit: PM Modi meets Macron, Sunak, Zelensky on sidelines, discusses bilateral ties and global issues

However, Beijing has refuted the allegation, saying it hasn't provided weapons and upholds strict regulations on exports that could have both civilian and military uses.

“China does not supply weapons, but the ability to produce those weapons and the technology available to do it,” US President Joe Biden said at the summit. “So it is, in fact, helping Russia.”

Video: Meloni-Macron clash at G7 summit on Macron's use of 'safe & legal abortion' phrase

×

The G7 leaders further issued a joint statement expressing fret about China's economic policies. “These policies, unfairly advantage Chinese companies, distort markets, and create excess production in many industries. This, in turn, hurts workers, businesses, and economic security in their own countries.”

(With inputs from agencies)