India, Aug. 4 -- Amid renewed trade negotiations between the US and China, tensions have flared over Washington's demand that Beijing cease purchasing oil from Iran and Russia. Following two days of talks in Stockholm, China responded defiantly, rejecting pressure from the US and insisting it will continue to safeguard its energy security based on national interests.

"Coercion and pressuring will not achieve anything. China will firmly defend its sovereignty, security and development interests," China's Foreign Ministry posted on X, responding to Washington's threat of a 100 per cent tariff on Chinese goods if oil purchases continue.

Despite this flashpoint, both sides have projected cautious optimism about reaching a broader trade deal...