China has firmly dismissed media reports suggesting that its newly announced export control measures on rare earth-related technologies were a response to Pakistan’s alleged cooperation with the United States in rare earth exports. The remarks came after the Global Times asked about viral social media claims that Pakistan had provided rare earth samples to the U.S., prompting Beijing to take countermeasures.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian clarified that China and Pakistan remain “all-weather strategic cooperative partners,” and their “iron-clad friendship has stood the test of time.” He emphasized that both nations maintain high-level strategic mutual trust and close communication on all major issues of mutual interest.
According to Lin Jian, China has been in touch with Pakistan regarding its cooperation with the U.S. in the mining sector. Pakistan, he said, has made it clear that its business dealings with the United States will never harm China’s interests or affect ongoing cooperation between the two countries.
Addressing the specific claims circulating online, Lin explained that the samples shown by Pakistani leaders to the U.S. President were gem ores purchased by staff within Pakistan, not rare earth materials obtained through Chinese technology or equipment. He criticized the viral reports, stating that the stories were “misinformed or invented,” and in some cases “designed to drive a wedge between China and Pakistan.”
Lin further stressed that China’s recent export control measures on rare earth items are entirely unrelated to Pakistan. He described the measures as a “legitimate action by the Chinese government” aimed at refining China’s export control system in line with national laws and regulations.
He added that the move is intended to “better defend world peace and regional stability” while ensuring China meets its “non-proliferation and other international obligations.”
With this clarification, Beijing has sought to dispel rumors and reaffirm its commitment to strong bilateral ties with Islamabad, underscoring that its export policies are driven by strategic and regulatory considerations—not by any third-country factor.
Disclaimer:
The information in this article is based on official statements from the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian during a press briefing, as reported by the Global Times. It is intended solely for informational and journalistic purposes. The article does not represent any political stance or opinion of the publisher. Readers are advised to refer to official government sources for the most accurate and updated information.
