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US and China Hold First Diplomatic Call in New Administration
First Contact Between Top Diplomats
China’s Foreign Ministry announced that U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a phone call with China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Friday. This marks the first publicly disclosed contact between the two nations’ top diplomats since President Donald Trump’s second administration began earlier in the week.
The discussion centered on U.S.-China relations and the sensitive topic of Taiwan, according to a Chinese Foreign Ministry readout of the call.
Messages on U.S.-China Relations
Wang Yi urged Rubio to adopt a constructive approach, stating, “I hope you would conduct yourself well and play a constructive role in the future of the Chinese and American people and in world peace and stability.”
During his Senate confirmation hearing, Rubio had identified China as the gravest threat facing the United States.
Diverging Views on Dealing with China
The talks come amid heightened tensions, with President Trump suggesting a 10% tariff on Chinese imports over Beijing’s involvement in the fentanyl trade. While Trump expressed optimism about relations with China during a speech at the World Economic Forum, his inner circle, including Rubio, has shown a tougher stance.
Last week, a phone call between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping reportedly established a plan to create a strategic communication channel for key issues.
Reflections on Past Relations
During Trump’s first term, his administration cultivated a relationship with Xi, highlighted by state visits in Florida and Beijing. Despite these efforts, ties between the two nations devolved into a trade war, disrupting global supply chains.
China’s Perspective on Relations and Taiwan
Wang Yi emphasized the importance of implementing agreements between the two nations’ leaders. He called for maintaining communication, managing differences, and promoting stable relations.
He reaffirmed China’s stance on Taiwan, stating that the island has been part of China’s territory since ancient times and must remain so. Wang further urged the United States to honor its commitment to the one-China policy outlined in the three Sino-U.S. joint communiqués.
Calls for Responsible Global Leadership
Wang concluded by emphasizing the importance of responsible behavior by major powers. He called on the U.S. to maintain global peace and foster mutual development, echoing statements U.S. officials have previously made about China.
“US and China Hold First Diplomatic Call in New Administration” “US and China Hold First Diplomatic Call in New Administration” “US and China Hold First Diplomatic Call in New Administration”