China on Thursday accused the United States of using tariffs "as a weapon" to put more pressure on countries all around the world and "seek selfish gains." "This move is against the whole world," not only against Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian said at a press briefing.

The official ensured that trade wars "have no winners," emphasizing that China does not want to fight the US, "but has no fear when they come our way." He added that Beijing's countermeasures are intended to protect China's sovereignty and "the common interests of the international community."

The spokesman underlined that Washington has to "show an attitude of equality, respect and mutual benefit" if it "wants to talk," after US President Donald Trump said he was ready to discuss trade relations with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping.