China says ‘reasonable concerns’ must be factored into Trump travel bans
China is building diplomatic role in Middle East, and has close ties with Iran and Sudan, two of Trump’s seven proscribed countries
China appeared to offer mild criticism on Monday of US President Donald Trump’s banning of entry of people from seven Muslim-majority countries, saying immigration policy was a sovereign right but “reasonable concerns” must be considered.
Trump signed a directive on the banning on Friday. US Democrats and a growing number of Republicans assailed the move and foreign leaders condemned it amid court challenges and tumult at US airports.
Trump says his directive is “not about religion” but keeping America safe. Trump has presented the policy as a way to protect the country from the threat of Islamist militants.
In a statement sent to Reuters, China’s foreign ministry, said it had noted the reports of the US administration’s decision.
“China believes that adjusting immigration and entry and exit policy is an act within each country’s sovereignty,” the ministry said.
“At the same time, relevant moves must also consider the reasonable concerns of relevant countries.”