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China's Foreign Minister dismisses European concerns over rare Earths

China's Foreign Minister downplayed European concerns over rare earth exports on Thursday. He said it was standard practice to control dual use goods exports, but that Europe could meet its needs if they submitted applications.

Wang Yi spoke in Berlin at a joint press conference with his German counterpart. He was on the second leg a European tour to prepare for the summit between EU leaders and Chinese leaders that will take place later this month.

Wang stated that "rare earths are not a problem, have never been a problem, and will never be a issue between China, Europe, or Germany." If legal applications are filed, Europe and Germany can meet their normal needs.

China, which controls 90% of the global processing capacity for rare Earths, used in everything from cars to home appliances and other products, imposed early April restrictions requiring exporters obtain licenses from Beijing.

The German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul stated that the restrictions caused "great concern" in Germany and damaged China's reputation as a reliable trading partner.

He said: "We're on our way to finding joint sustainable solutions that will bring about the detente necessary,"

When Wang was asked whether an agreement on restrictions could be reached ahead of the EU and China summit, he replied: "This issue is not between China or Europe... Controlling dual-use products is standard practice." China and Germany have both the right to do this."

He added that the Chinese Ministry of Commerce has already implemented a fast track procedure to ensure that all normal approvals can be processed as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Wang arrived in Berlin after a visit to Brussels where he had a meeting with EU officials, including Kaja Kallas the EU's High Representative for Foreign Policy, who also encouraged Wang to lift export restrictions on rare earths.

Wadephul stated that the two ministers discussed the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Taiwan, and the Middle East crisis.

He said, "We think China can play an important role in the relationship with Iran." (Reporting and editing by Bill Berkrot; Sarah Marsh, Andreas Rinke)

(source: Reuters)