BEIJING - China deplores and firmly opposes unjustified European sanctions against Chinese companies, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday.

Spokesperson Mao Ning made the remarks at a daily news briefing in response to a new round of sanctions against Russia announced by the EU and the UK. This time, Chinese and UAE companies have also been included in the sanctions list.

Mao said that on the Ukraine crisis, China is committed to promoting talks for peace. China has never provided lethal weapons to parties to the conflict and strictly controls the export of dual-use articles.

The normal exchanges and cooperation between Chinese and Russian companies should not be disrupted or affected, she said, adding that most countries, including those in Europe and the United States, continue to trade with Russia.

READ MORE: China slams EU for adding Chinese entities, individuals to sanctions list against Russia

Those in Europe need to stop using double standard on trade and economic cooperation with Russia and hurting the lawful interests of Chinese companies. China will do what is necessary to firmly defend its lawful rights and interests, Mao said.