China has already launched a special operation to combat the smuggling of strategic minerals, while continuing to process legitimate export applications for civilian use, the Ministry of Commerce said Thursday.
The statement was made by the ministry's spokeswoman, He Yongqian, during a press conference in response to a question about critical minerals reportedly being transshipped to the United States.
"Strategic minerals like antimony and gallium have clear dual-use properties for both military and civilian applications, and export controls are consistent with common international practice. To firmly prevent illegal outflows, in May this year, China launched a special operation targeting the smuggling of strategic minerals," she said.
Relevant information is available on the ministry's website, she added.
"Let me explain that as a responsible major country, China fully considers the reasonable civilian demands from various countries for these strategic minerals, reviews export license applications in accordance with laws and regulations, and approves those that comply with requirements," the spokeswoman said.
China combats strategic mineral smuggling while ensuring legitimate exports: commerce ministry
Protesters filled Mexico City's Paseo de la Reforma on Saturday, rallying in solidarity with Venezuela and denouncing U.S. influence in Latin America.
The United States launched a large-scale military operation against Venezuela in the early hours of Jan 3, taking by force Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.
Holding numerous flags and banners while chanting slogans intermittently, a huge crowd of protesters criticized U.S. military actions against Venezuela and the unlawful control over President Maduro and his spouse, calling for respect for national sovereignty and regional peace.
"We oppose the U.S. intervention and hegemony towards the countries in Latin America. The United States has flagrantly trampled on international law, bombed Caracas and kidnapped the Maduro couple. The U.S. interventionism has become extremely blatant. We must firmly oppose and be highly vigilant, because this is not only related to a certain country, but also to all countries," said a protester.
"We demand that the United States stop interfering in Venezuela's internal affairs. The country must immediately cease its exploitation and plundering of the countries in Latin America," said another protester.
Protest erupts in Mexico City over US military operation in Venezuela
