China has called on Finland not to politicise economic relations, following comments from Finland’s foreign minister on China’s ties with Russia.
Speaking at a press briefing in Beijing, foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said China hopes Finland will view its international partnerships “rationally and objectively” and avoid linking trade cooperation with security concerns.
The remarks came after Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen described China’s relationship with Russia as a “disqualifying factor” for a potential free trade agreement between China and the European Union.
China stressed that economic ties between the European Union and China are mutually beneficial, and called for continued dialogue and cooperation based on mutual respect.
The exchange highlights ongoing tensions around trade and geopolitical alignment, as EU member states continue to assess their economic relationships with China.
