China decries NATO’s ‘imaginary enemies tactic’

ISTANBUL

China has strongly criticized NATO's characterization of it as a "decisive enabler" of Russia's actions in Ukraine, labeling NATO's stance as an attempt to create "imaginary enemies" to bolster its influence, according to state media reports on Thursday.

Speaking in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian condemned NATO's declaration during its summit in Washington, accusing the alliance of perpetuating Cold War mentalities and employing provocative rhetoric against China.

"NATO's persistent portrayal of China as a systemic challenge and its criticism of China's domestic and foreign policies are typical tactics aimed at expanding its own power," Lin told reporters.

The NATO declaration, released on Wednesday, accused China of significantly supporting Russia's defense industry and enabling Moscow's military actions in Ukraine. It urged China, as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, to cease all forms of assistance to Russia's war efforts.

Lin emphasized China's strong opposition to NATO's stance, describing it as prejudiced and inflammatory towards China, and stating that China had lodged a formal protest with NATO over the matter.

NATO is currently celebrating its 75th anniversary at the summit, with leaders from South Korea, Japan, and New Zealand attending as guests, while Australia is represented by its defense chief.

"The security NATO claims to provide often comes at the expense of others' security, and much of the anxiety NATO spreads is self-generated," Lin asserted. He also warned that NATO's perceived strength posed a significant global threat.