China's export controls on Japan aimed to stop remilitarization, nuclear ambitions

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said on Wednesday that China's export controls on Japan are implemented in accordance with laws and regulations to stop Japan's remilitarization and its attempt to possess nuclear weapons.

Mao made the remarks at a regular news briefing following reports that Japan's supply of the critical rare-earth element of yttrium could run out within months and that Tokyo has asked the United States for help in pressing China to ease the curbs.

China's position of keeping the global industrial and supply chains of critical minerals safe and stable has not changed, she said. All parties have a responsibility to play a constructive role in this regard, Mao added.