The Ministry of Commerce says trade disputes with the US will not affect China's stance on foreign trade and its use of foreign investment. The ministry made the remarks at a press conference on Tuesday. It also says China will continue to negotiate with the US over new duties on Chinese-made tires.

Higher duties on Chinese tires have put trade disputes on the table. The spokesman of the Ministry of Commerce repeated that China has been sticking to its stance against protectionism. He also says it's unreasonable for the US to initiate protectionist measures at such a critical period during global recovery.

Yao Jian, Spokesman of Ministry of Commerce said "As we all know, the global financial crisis started from the US. The US government should take on relevant responsibility and obligations. And it should be more prudent in taking any protectionist measures. The new duties by the US are not reasonable in both ethical and legal aspects."

Yao Jian says the commerce ministry will continue to negotiate with the US to safeguard sound bilateral and multi-lateral trading systems.

Yao Jian said "Sino-US ties are one of the most important bilateral trade relationships for both sides. One of our ministry's most important obligations is also to boost Sino-US economic and trade ties. We will take further measures to solve trade disputes. But this will not affect China's policies on foreign trade. We will continue to create a sound investment environment for overseas enterprises."

The Chinese government has promised to spare no effort to help tire manufacturers affected by the US tariffs.

It's also filed a formal complaint to the World Trade Organization over the new duties. The WTO's dispute settlement system gives the two sides 60 days to try to resolve the dispute through consultations.

(CCTV September 16, 2009)