In a recent phone conversation, Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu and U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell engaged in discussions focusing on China-U.S. relations and pressing international issues. The call underscored the importance of communication between the two nations amidst global challenges.
Emphasis on Core Interests
Vice Foreign Minister Ma reiterated China’s firm stance on several key issues, emphasizing the significance of respecting China’s core interests. He stressed that the Taiwan question is central to China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, marking it as the first red line that must not be crossed in China-U.S. relations.
Ma urged the United States to fully comprehend the separatist nature of certain forces in Taiwan and their detrimental impact on cross-strait peace and stability. He called on the U.S. to adhere to the three China-U.S. joint communiques and to refrain from supporting “Taiwan independence” in any form.
Addressing Regional Matters
The discussion also touched upon Xizang (Tibet) and the South China Sea. Ma highlighted that issues related to Xizang are internal affairs of China, concerning sovereignty and territorial integrity. He advised the U.S. to stop interfering under the pretext of Xizang-related matters and to cease supporting separatist movements.
Regarding the South China Sea, Ma pointed out that recent tensions stem from certain parties abandoning prior agreements and attempting to alter the status quo through unilateral actions. He called on the U.S. to play a constructive role in maintaining peace and stability in the region rather than encouraging provocative actions.
China’s Position on the Ukraine Crisis
On the topic of the Ukraine crisis, Ma stated that China’s position remains objective and impartial. He urged the U.S. to avoid unfounded accusations against China and to stop hindering normal economic and trade relations between China and other nations. Ma affirmed China’s opposition to the misuse of unilateral sanctions and “long-arm jurisdiction,” emphasizing China’s commitment to safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of its entities and individuals.
Call for Actions Matching Commitments
Ma reminded the U.S. of the “five-no” commitments made by President Joe Biden, which include not seeking a new Cold War with China, not aiming to change China’s system, and not supporting “Taiwan independence.” He called for these commitments to be translated into real actions, urging the U.S. to respect China’s sovereignty, security, and development interests.
The phone call signifies ongoing efforts by both nations to address areas of contention and to seek common ground. The international community watches closely as China and the U.S. navigate their complex relationship in an era marked by global uncertainties.
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Chinese, U.S. officials discuss ties, issues of common concern in call
cgtn.com
