China vows to protect trade rights

China warned Monday that sanctions and pressure tactics do not resolve disputes, vowing to take necessary steps to safeguard its interests as the US prepares a sweeping package of economic penalties targeting Iran and its trading partners.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian told reporters in Beijing that sanctions and pressure tactics "lead to escalation," stressing that "escalation serves no one's interests."

"China calls on parties to act rationally and with restraint and avoid taking any measures that may further escalate tensions or deal a blow to global economic growth and financial stability," Lin said.

He was responding to questions about the Trump administration's move to impose sanctions on Tehran and its trading partners amid the ongoing war between the US and Iran.