China vows to safeguard legitimate rights amid US sanctions threat

China will closely follow developments and take necessary measures to safeguard its legitimate rights and interests amid a US threat to impose secondary sanctions on countries trading or doing business with Iran, Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said on Monday.

"Sanctions and pressure will not help resolve problems. They will only heighten tensions and escalate the situation, which serves no party's interests," Lin told a regular news conference.

He made the remarks when asked how China would respond if the United States imposes secondary sanctions against countries dealing with Iran.

Lin called on all parties to remain rational and exercise restraint, and to avoid measures that could further aggravate tensions and conflict or undermine global economic growth and financial stability.

The parties concerned should return as soon as possible to the right track of dialogue and negotiations for a political settlement, he added.

"China will closely follow relevant developments and take necessary measures to safeguard its legitimate rights and interests," Lin said.