China’s Premier of the State Council, Li Qiang, on Friday strongly criticised the rise of “protectionist” trade measures, warning that tariff hikes and other barriers are adversely affecting the global economy.
Speaking on behalf of Chinese President Xi Jinping at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, Li highlighted the need for international cooperation to maintain economic stability.
“A major cause of the current global economic doldrums is the rise in unilateral and protectionist measures such as tariff hikes and the erection of walls and barriers,” the Chinese premier said.
He urged countries to work together, stating, “We should collaborate more closely to identify and expand convergence of interests, promote universally beneficial and inclusiv