China pledges to safeguard lawful rights, interests of Chinese firms in Panama: spokesman

China pledges to safeguard the lawful rights and interests of Chinese companies in Panama, Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said at a press briefing in Beijing on Friday.

Guo's statement came following a ruling from Panama's top court on matters involving a Chinese company there.

"You may have noted that the relevant company issued a statement promptly, pointing out that the ruling contravenes the Panamanian laws that approved the concession. The company reserves all rights and will take all necessary legal steps, including litigation," Guo said.

"China will do what is necessary to firmly defend Chinese businesses' legitimate and lawful rights and interests," he said.

China pledges to safeguard lawful rights, interests of Chinese firms in Panama: spokesman

China firmly supports Cuba in safeguarding its national sovereignty and security and in opposing external interference, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesman Guo Jiakun said on Friday.

Guo made the statement at a press conference in Beijing in response to a question regarding U.S. President Donald Trump's signing of an executive order on Thursday threatening to impose tariffs on countries that sell oil to Cuba.

"China firmly supports Cuba in safeguarding its national sovereignty and security and in opposing external interference, and resolutely opposes any actions and inhumane practices that deprive the Cuban people of their right to survival and development," Guo said.

China firmly supports Cuba in safeguarding national sovereignty, security: spokesman