Dragon TV: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken issued a statement on January 10 saying that China’s sanctions on commissioners of the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) are “without merit” and alleging that there is “ongoing genocide and crimes against humanity in Xinjiang”. Does the Chinese side have any comment?

Wang Wenbin: Allegations of “genocide and crimes against humanity in Xinjiang” are lies of the century fabricated by some individuals in the US. The US side has been creating rumors to malign China, tarnish China’s image and contain its development, but their conspiracy will not succeed.

Over the past few years, the US, under the disguise of democracy, human rights and religion, imposed unilateral sanctions on dozens of Chinese officials and several entities pursuant to its domestic legislation on issues concerning China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity such as Xinjiang and Hong Kong, all of which are without merit. These acts interfere in China’s internal affairs and gravely harm China’s interests. The Chinese side has made response in accordance with law, which are completely justified moves to defend sovereignty, security and development interests.

We will continue to take all necessary measures to safeguard our national sovereignty, dignity and legitimate interests .

(Source: Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin’s Regular Press Conference on January 11, 2022)