China has hit back at the United States after Washington criticized Beijing's sanctions on ministers from Paraguay and Belize—countries that maintain diplomatic ties with Taiwan—calling the move "coercive and aggressive," urging the U.S. to handle the Taiwan issue with caution.

During a regular briefing today, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning responded to a question regarding U.S. criticism by stating, "The one-China principle is a basic norm governing international relations, a universal consensus of the international community, and the political foundation of China-U.S. relations."

Mao went on to urge, "The United States must abide by the one-China principle and the provisions stipulated in the three China-U.S. joint communiques, handle the Taiwan issue prudently, and stop sending wrong signals to separatist forces seeking Taiwan independence."

Previously, the Chinese Foreign Ministry announced sanctions the day before against Gustavo Villate, Paraguay's minister of information and communication technologies, and Francis Fonseca, Belize's minister of foreign affairs, foreign trade, education, culture, science and technology.

The sanctions include freezing assets within China, prohibiting transactions and cooperation with Chinese organizations and individuals, and banning visa issuances.

China claimed that these individuals undermined its core interests through official exchanges with Taiwan.

Paraguay and Belize are among the 12 countries that currently maintain official diplomatic relations with Taiwan.

In response, State Department Spokesperson Tommy Pigott stated in a release, "We oppose China's use of coercion and aggressive behavior against countries simply for exercising their sovereign rights."

He also emphasized, "The United States will continue to advance shared prosperity, security, and values alongside allies and partners, including Taiwan."

(Photo courtesy of Chinese Foreign Ministry, Yonhap News)