Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun’s Regular Press Conference on May 12, 2026

Global Times: It is reported that President of Paraguay Santiago Peña visited Taiwan from May 7 to 10. He met with Lai Ching-te on May 8 in Taipei and signed several so-called "cooperation documents." President Peña claimed that Paraguay supported Taiwan's "participation in international multilateral systems," "the international community should recognize Taiwan," and Taiwan does not need to worry about changes in their bilateral ties. He added that the friendship between Taiwan and Paraguay is reflected in projects, investments and opportunities for the people of Paraguay. What's your comment?

Guo Jiakun: China firmly opposes and condemns such moves made by the Paraguayan side. There is but one China in the world, and Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory. The one-China principle is a basic norm governing international relations and a prevailing consensus in the international community. Over the years, we have heard time and again the strong call of people from various sectors in Paraguay to develop relations with China. According to a poll in Paraguay, nearly 90 percent of the respondents supported establishing diplomatic ties with China. This fully demonstrates that establishing diplomatic relations with China serves the fundamental and long-term interests of the Paraguayan people, and that colluding with the Taiwan authorities wins no support. Relevant Paraguayan political figures not only turn a blind eye to it, but also blatantly visit Taiwan to endorse Lai Ching-te and his like in defiance of global criticism and willingly serve as chess pieces for "Taiwan independence" separatist forces. It's apparent for all whether it is truly for the benefit of the Paraguayan people or for some ulterior motive.

We urge the Paraguayan government to change course at an early date, see where the arc of history bends, follow their people's will, and make the right political decision to recognize the one-China principle. The wheels of history wait for no one. Rejecting the one-China principle will only isolate oneself from the international community.

AFP: On Monday, the U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned 12 Iran-linked individuals and entities, including four Hong Kong-based firms, over oil sales to China by Iran's military. What is China's response to this?

Guo Jiakun: We stand firmly against unilateral sanctions that have no basis in international law or the authorization of the UN Security Council. We will firmly protect Chinese businesses' legitimate and lawful rights and interests.

Reuters: U.S. President Trump said yesterday that he would discuss with the Chinese side the U.S. arms sales to Taiwan and about Jimmy Lai's case. Is China prepared to engage on these topics with Trump? 

Guo Jiakun: During President Trump's visit to China, the two heads of state will have an in-depth exchange of views on major issues concerning China-U.S. relations and world peace and development.

China's firm opposition to U.S. arms sales to China's Taiwan region is consistent and clear. As to the Lai Chee-ying case, China has made its position clear more than once.

Reuters: In addition to the U.S. sanctions announced last Friday against companies accused of aiding Iran's weapons sector, the U.S. Treasury yesterday also sanctioned companies it said helped ship Iranian oil to China. The sanctions announced on Friday and yesterday affect Chinese and Hong Kong entities. What is China's response to these coming so close to the Trump visit? Would China take retaliatory measures?

Guo Jiakun: I just answered a related question. We stand firmly against illicit unilateral sanctions that have no basis in international law or the authorization of the UN Security Council. We will take resolute measures to protect the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese businesses and citizens. On the Iran conflict, the pressing priority now is to prevent by all means a relapse in fighting, rather than to throw mud at China.

Reuters: Reuters has learned from sources that the White House is seeking bigger agriculture commitments from China on soybeans and other farm products. The markets expect China to buy more grains and meat but they do not expect Beijing to buy more soybeans above the target cited by the White House. Does the ministry have any comment on this?

Guo Jiakun: The China-U.S. economic and trade relations are mutually beneficial in nature. The two sides need to work together to deliver on the important common understandings between the two presidents, and provide greater stability for China-U.S. economic and trade cooperation and the global economy. On specifics, I'd refer you to competent authorities.

Shenzhen TV: Prime Minister of Japan Sanae Takaichi remains unwilling to retract what she said on Taiwan last November. We see that China has been amplifying criticism of Japan's neo-militarism. Meanwhile, Sanae Takaichi and other Japanese officials have visited many countries in a short period of time to explain Japan's "peaceful" stance, while easing restrictions on export of lethal weapons and planning to revise its pacifist Constitution and the three national security documents. Other countries, however, seem to be distancing themselves from the matter rather than pick sides between China and Japan. What's China's take on this tendency to stay "neutral" for relevant countries?

Guo Jiakun: Japanese militarism inflicted untold suffering on people in the Asia Pacific. The prosperity and development of the Asia-Pacific countries benefits from the peaceful foundation laid down by the post-WWII international order. The reality that must not be ignored is that Japan's right-wing forces are moving faster to undermine this order and foundation with specific roadmap and steps. The "gray rhino" of Japan's remilitarization is running towards us. Many international experts, scholars and media have noted that Japan has abandoned pacifism, and is undergoing its most dangerous shift in military and security policy since WWII, posing great threats to peace and stability in the region and beyond. History shall not be forgotten. Reality shall not be overlooked. The Asia-Pacific countries should stay clear-eyed and jointly reject the reckless moves of Japanese neo-militarism to safeguard the order of peace on which all countries rely for survival and development.

China-Arab TV: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in an interview that "he didn't like it" that "China gave certain amount of support and particular components of missile manufacturing" to Iran. What's your comment? 

Guo Jiakun: We have made clear China's position on multiple occasions. As a responsible major country, China always fulfills faithfully its due international obligations. We are committed to promoting deescalation and peace talks to bring about an end to the conflict. We oppose accusations that are not grounded on facts.

AFP: Is China willing to consider Jimmy Lai's release if Trump asks in talks with the Chinese side this week? 

Guo Jiakun: Lai Chee-ying is the principal mastermind and perpetrator behind the riots that shook Hong Kong. Hong Kong affairs are China's internal affairs. The central government of China firmly supports the Hong Kong judicial authorities in performing duties in accordance with the law.