China expressed strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition after the US Department of Defense placed some Chinese research institutions on a sanctions list, the Ministry of Commerce said on Wednesday.

The US has politicized and weaponized scientific research cooperation, hindering bilateral exchanges and collaboration, a ministry spokesperson said.

China will take necessary measures to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of its research institutions and ensure a sound environment for normal scientific and technological exchanges and cooperation, the spokesperson added.

(With input from Xinhua)