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China has categorically rejected claims of diplomatic tensions with Pakistan regarding rare earth mineral exports to the United States, reaffirming the strength of bilateral relations between the longtime allies.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian addressed speculation during a press briefing, emphasizing that Beijing’s recent export restrictions on rare earth minerals and associated technologies are unrelated to Pakistan’s dealings with Washington.
Export Controls Part of Regulatory Framework
Lin clarified that China’s enhanced export control measures represent standard regulatory actions designed to strengthen its legal framework governing sensitive materials and technologies, not punitive measures against any specific nation.
The statement comes amid media reports suggesting Pakistan utilized Chinese equipment and technology to export rare earth minerals to America, allegedly prompting Beijing to impose stricter technology transfer regulations.
Strategic Partnership Remains Unshaken
The Chinese spokesperson underscored that Pakistan and China maintain an “all-weather strategic partnership” characterized by unwavering mutual trust and continuous high-level dialogue on matters of common interest.
“Pakistan has assured that its relations with the United States will never harm Beijing’s interests or undermine China-Pakistan cooperation,” Lin stated, confirming direct consultations between both nations on mineral collaboration matters.
Addressing specific concerns, Lin revealed that mineral samples presented by Pakistani officials to American counterparts were actually commercial gemstone specimens acquired through regular procurement channels, not strategic rare earth exports.
Pakistan-US Mineral Development Agreement
The diplomatic clarification follows a September 2025 memorandum between US Strategic Metals and Pakistan’s Frontier Works Organization, establishing a $500 million polymetallic refinery focused on copper, gold, and tungsten processing.
Initial mineral sample shipments to the United States included antimony, copper concentrate, and rare earth elements like neodymium and praseodymium, representing a strategic milestone in Pakistan-US economic cooperation.
Lin dismissed circulating reports as “misunderstandings, rumors, or deliberate attempts to sow discord,” emphasizing China’s commitment to global peace and international non-proliferation obligations.
