France, July 17 -- The UK on Thursday nationalised British Steel, taking over the loss-making company previously owned ‌by Chinese steelmaker ⁠Jingye, in an effort to "protect the future of steel production in the UK".

The UK had "forcibly" taken over the company and "disregarded" Jingye's contributions to the British economy and society, ‌according to a spokesperson from China's Ministry of Commerce.

He said the move "seriously damaged" Jingye's legitimate rights and interests, and "severely undermined" Chinese companies' confidence in investing in the UK, adding that Beijing would "closely monitor developments and support Chinese firms in protecting their rights".

He urged the UK to fulfil its obligations under the ...