BEIJING – China strongly deplores and firmly opposes Japan's unilateral sanctions that have no basis in international law against China-based companies, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Friday.

Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian made the remarks at a regular press briefing when asked to comment on Japan's trade restrictions on China-based companies.

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The reaction hours after Japan's foreign ministry announced that it has imposed trade restrictions on China-based companies as part of the fresh round of sanctions against individuals and groups doing business with Russia.

We will take all measures necessary to firmly safeguard our legitimate and lawful rights and interests.

Lin Jian, Spokesperson, Foreign Ministry, China

"We noted the reports," the spokesperson said, adding that China firmly opposes unilateral sanctions that have no basis in international law.

It is China's lawful right to carry out normal trade and economic cooperation with Russia on the basis of equality and mutual benefit, he said, adding that such cooperation shall not be disrupted or undermined by other parties.

Japan, in disregard of China's just position, followed certain country's suit by imposing illicit unilateral sanctions, he said.

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"We will take all measures necessary to firmly safeguard our legitimate and lawful rights and interests," said Lin.