On Saturday, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi called on the United States to effectively manage risks and handle differences in bilateral relations. His remarks came during a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on the sidelines of a series of foreign ministers’ meetings in Vientiane, Laos.
Wang Yi, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, highlighted that despite ongoing communications between diplomatic, financial, law enforcement, and climate change teams, as well as increased people-to-people exchanges over the past three months, the U.S.’s containment and suppression of China has not receded but intensified.
Emphasizing Mutual Respect
Wang stressed that China’s policy toward the U.S. remains consistent, adhering to the principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation. He urged the U.S. to translate President Joe Biden’s commitments into reality and to return to a rational and pragmatic approach toward China.
“It is necessary to continuously calibrate the direction of the relationship, manage risks, handle differences properly, remove interference, and promote cooperation,” Wang stated.
Addressing Key Issues
The Taiwan Question
Regarding Taiwan, Wang reiterated that it is an inseparable part of China and has never been, nor will it ever be, a country. He emphasized that “Taiwan independence” is incompatible with peace in the Taiwan Strait. “We will counter every provocation by the ‘Taiwan independence’ forces, reduce the space for ‘Taiwan independence,’ and work toward the goal of complete national reunification,” he asserted.
South China Sea Concerns
Wang also addressed issues relating to Ren’ai Jiao in the South China Sea, urging the U.S. not to stir up trouble or undermine maritime stability. He noted that China has reached a temporary arrangement with the Philippines to manage the situation and expects the Philippines to honor its commitments regarding the illegally grounded vessel at Ren’ai Jiao.
Ukraine Crisis
On the Ukraine crisis, Wang stated that China’s position is candid and that it will continue to promote peace talks. He called on the U.S. to halt indiscriminate unilateral sanctions and long-arm jurisdiction, emphasizing that China opposes smears and planted evidence, does not accept pressure and blackmail, and will take resolute measures to safeguard its major interests and legitimate rights.
U.S. Response
Secretary Blinken expressed the U.S.’s commitment to stabilizing relations with China and adherence to the one-China policy. He conveyed willingness to maintain regular communication and cooperate in areas such as anti-drug efforts and artificial intelligence. Blinken also emphasized the importance of managing differences to avoid misunderstandings and miscalculations.
Moving Forward
Both parties acknowledged the critical juncture at which China-U.S. relations stand. Wang Yi highlighted the need for continuous efforts to stabilize, sound, and sustain the development of bilateral ties. The dialogue between Wang and Blinken reflects ongoing attempts by both nations to navigate complex issues and find common ground.
Reference(s):
China urges U.S. to manage risks, handle differences in relations
cgtn.com
