In response to media reports that US President Donald Trump on Thursday suggested that Washington could impose sanctions on Chinese banks doing business with Iran, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian told a press briefing on Friday that regarding the situation in Iran, China has consistently maintained that dialogue and negotiations are the only way to resolve the issue, and that China's opposition to illegal unilateral sanctions is consistent and unequivocal.

A Chinese official indicated that its cooperation with Iran should not be disrupted, even as the U.S. pursues "economic asphyxiation."

The latest American sanctions promised 'the toughest sanctions in history' on 60 individuals, entities and vessels, including those based in Hong Kong and mainland China.