During a press conference on March 19, 2025, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning addressed U.S. visa restrictions on Cuba, emphasized dialogue in the Ukraine crisis, warned Japan against military actions related to Taiwan, confirmed cooperation with Kiribati on deep-sea mining, and discussed the repatriation of Uyghurs from Thailand. Mao urged respect for history and mutual benefit in international relations.
On March 19, 2025, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning addressed several topics during a regular press conference. Key issues included U.S. visa restrictions on Cuba’s medical missions, the normalization of Russia-U.S. relations, Japan’s military activities concerning Taiwan, deep-sea mining cooperation with Kiribati, and the situation of Uyghurs deported from Thailand.
Regarding the U.S. visa restrictions, Mao mentioned that Cuba has sent over 600,000 medical personnel to more than 60 countries over the past 60 years. These missions have provided critical medical services to over 230 million people, saving more than 12 million lives. The U.S. labeling these efforts as “forced labor” is seen as a guise to impose sanctions and is criticized by China.
On Russia-U.S. relations, Mao stated that China advocates for resolution through dialogue and negotiation regarding the ongoing Ukraine crisis, welcoming efforts towards a ceasefire and peace talks.
Addressing concerns about Japanese military movements, such as the recent sailing of a Japanese vessel through the Taiwan Strait, Mao emphasized that Taiwan remains a matter of Chinese sovereignty and urged Japan to act prudently given its historical responsibilities.
Mao affirmed China’s cooperative relationship with Kiribati in deep-sea mining, emphasizing that such engagements follow international laws and principles of mutual benefit.
Finally, concerning the Uyghurs deported from Thailand, Mao confirmed that the repatriation was in compliance with the laws of both countries, asserting that the legally agreed-upon rights of individuals are upheld. He encouraged collaboration with Thailand on law enforcement matters and ensured lawful protections are in place for the repatriated individuals.
For the upcoming 80th anniversary of the victory against Japanese aggression, Mao urged Japan to acknowledge its historical responsibilities and work towards peaceful development to build trust with its neighbors and the international community.
In summary, Mao Ning’s press conference highlighted China’s stance on critical international issues, including U.S. sanctions on Cuba, the necessity of dialogue in resolving the Ukraine conflict, Japan’s military activities around Taiwan, and China’s cooperative ventures in deep-sea mining. Additionally, Mao reassured that the rights of repatriated Uyghurs are protected under existing laws, emphasizing the importance of historical reflections for Japan. These comments reflect China’s commitment to cooperation, dialogue, and respect for sovereignty in its foreign relations.
Original Source: www.mfa.gov.cn
