China criticizes US tech curbs but trade talks going ahead

BEIJING: China demanded Washington lift newly imposed sanctions on Chinese tech companies but said Tuesday envoys will go ahead with a U.S. trip for trade talks despite the latest spike in tensions.

The foreign ministry criticized the curbs on sales of U.S. technology to the Chinese companies as interference in China’s affairs but gave no indication whether Beijing might retaliate. The measure announced Monday targets providers of technology Washington says is being used to repress Muslim ethnic minorities.

“We urge the United States to immediately correct its wrong practices, withdraw the relevant decisions and stop interfering in China’s internal affairs,” said the spokesman, Geng Shuang. “China will continue to take firm and strong measures to resolutely safeguard the country’s sovereignty, security and development interests.”