Doha: China expressed on Monday its strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition to the European Union's (EU) decision to include Chinese companies and financial institutions in its 18th round of sanctions against Russia.

According to Qatar News Agency, a spokesperson for China's Ministry of Commerce said the EU had disregarded China's multiple representations and objections by unilaterally including Chinese companies in its sanctions list and imposing penalties on two Chinese financial institutions based on groundless accusations. The spokesperson added that China will take necessary measures to firmly protect the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies and financial institutions.

The spokesperson noted that the EU has repeatedly ignored China's protests and objections, unilaterally adding Chinese companies to its sanctions list, and imposing sanctions on two Chinese financial institutions based on unfounded accusations.

The spokesperson emphasized that China consistently opposes unilateral sanctions that lack basis in international law and authorization from the United Nations Security Council.

The EU's actions contradict the consensus reached between Chinese and EU leaders, and will seriously undermine China-EU economic and trade ties as well as financial cooperation, the spokesperson added.

Last Friday, the European Union Council approved the 18th package of sanctions against Russia, targeting 14 individuals and 41 legal entities.