BEIJING, July 21 (Xinhua) -- A spokesperson for China's Ministry of Commerce on Monday expressed strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition to the European Union's (EU) decision to include Chinese companies and financial institutions in its 18th round of sanctions against Russia.

Responding to a media inquiry, the spokesperson said the EU had disregarded China's multiple representations and objections by unilaterally including Chinese companies in its sanctions list and imposing penalties on two Chinese financial institutions based on groundless accusations.

The spokesperson emphasized that China consistently opposes unilateral sanctions that lack basis in international law and authorization from the United Nations Security Council.

The EU's actions contradict the consensus reached between Chinese and EU leaders, and will seriously undermine China-EU economic and trade ties as well as financial cooperation, the spokesperson added.

China urges the EU to immediately cease its erroneous practice of including Chinese enterprises and financial institutions in its sanctions list, the spokesperson said. The spokesperson added that China will take necessary measures to firmly protect the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies and financial institutions. ■