BEIJING (Reuters) - China’s commerce ministry said on Thursday that the review of foreign investments in sensitive sectors should not be used as a tool for protectionism.

U.S. President Donald Trump blocked a Chinese-backed private equity firm from buying a U.S.-based chipmaker on Wednesday, sending a clear signal to Beijing that Washington will oppose takeover deals that involve technologies with potential military applications.

Gao Feng, the ministry spokesman, said China hopes other countries can have an objective view of Chinese firms’ overseas investments.