China has announced five major objectives for U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s upcoming visit, aiming to stabilize and advance China-U.S. relations. Yang Tao, director-general of the Department of North American and Oceanian Affairs at the Chinese Foreign Ministry, outlined these goals in a media briefing on Monday.
Establishing Correct Understanding
Yang emphasized the importance of building a correct understanding between China and the United States. He stated that the two countries cannot halt exchanges or fall into conflict and confrontation. “China-U.S. relations should remain steady, improve, and progress on a stable, sound, and sustainable path,” Yang said. He underscored that while China seeks positive relations, it will uphold its interests, principles, and bottom lines.
Strengthening Dialogue
The Chinese official highlighted ongoing consultations between the diplomatic teams of both nations. These discussions are grounded in seven points of consensus: mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, maintaining communication, preventing conflict, abiding by the UN Charter, conducting cooperation in areas of common interest, and responsibly managing competitive factors in bilateral ties.
“China’s door for dialogue and communication has always been open,” Yang remarked. He urged the United States to align its actions with its words and to abandon any notions of engaging with China “from a position of strength.”
Effectively Managing Differences
Acknowledging the persistent differences between the two countries, Yang stressed that these should not dominate the bilateral relationship. China intends to clearly articulate its positions and demands on pivotal issues such as Taiwan, trade, science and technology, and the South China Sea.
Promoting Mutually Beneficial Cooperation
Yang pointed out that over 20 institutional consultations established or restarted after the meeting between the two heads of state in San Francisco are ongoing. He expressed China’s readiness to promote cooperation that benefits both nations, emphasizing the need for joint efforts to address global challenges.
Jointly Shouldering Responsibilities as Major Countries
As major powers, China and the United States have shared responsibilities on the international stage. Yang called on the U.S. to work with other members of the United Nations Security Council to fulfill international obligations, support Security Council Resolution 2728, and advocate for a comprehensive ceasefire in Gaza to save Palestinian lives.
He also urged the U.S. to reflect on its role in the Ukraine crisis, refrain from blaming China for the situation, and cease imposing unilateral sanctions on Chinese companies and individuals. “The Ukraine issue is not an issue between China and the United States, and the U.S. should not turn it into one,” Yang stated.
The upcoming visit by Secretary Blinken represents an opportunity for both nations to address critical issues and work towards a more stable and constructive relationship. China’s outlined objectives signal its commitment to dialogue and cooperation while firmly safeguarding its national interests.
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5 major goals for Blinken's China visit, Chinese Foreign Ministry says
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