Foreign Minister Wang Yi of China accused the United States of hindering China’s progress during discussions with his U.S. counterpart Antony Blinken, who is visiting Beijing to address trade and policy disparities between the two nations.
During closed-door meetings at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse, Blinken and Wang engaged in discussions and a working lunch, striving to maintain positive momentum in bilateral relations amidst a complex agenda.
Wang expressed concerns about increasing challenges in the China-U.S. relationship despite recent stabilization, citing unreasonable suppression of China’s development rights and challenges to its core interests.
Blinken emphasized the necessity of active diplomacy to advance the agenda set by Presidents Biden and Xi during their November meeting in San Francisco, stressing the importance of face-to-face dialogue to clarify differences and prevent misunderstandings.
The discussions took place at a guesthouse complex historically significant for hosting foreign dignitaries, including former U.S. President Richard Nixon.
Ahead of the meetings, U.S. officials signaled intentions to address China’s support for Russia, highlighting potential repercussions for Chinese companies aiding Russia’s defense industry, which could impact broader bilateral relations.
While exchanges and working groups address various issues such as military communication and global trade, significant disparities persist, exacerbated by recent events like the passage of a bipartisan bill allocating funds to counter China’s military expansion and support Taiwan and Ukraine.
Contentious topics include the South China Sea dispute and efforts to curb China’s supply of chemicals used in fentanyl production.
Amidst the discussions, Wang emphasized China’s stance on sovereignty, security, and development interests, particularly regarding Taiwan and the South China Sea.
Blinken is expected to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Minister of Public Security Wang Xiaohong, although formal confirmation is pending.
Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen indicated that the U.S. is considering various responses to China’s industrial overcapacity, emphasizing the global unacceptability of China’s employment-focused export strategy.
