China Expects New U.S. Government to Manage Bilateral Relations Responsibly: Wang Yi

Beijing, The Gulf Observer: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi expressed hopes on Tuesday that the incoming U.S. administration will properly manage its initial steps in China-U.S. relations, emphasizing the importance of maintaining stable and constructive ties between the two countries.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made these comments during a meeting with a delegation led by Susan Elliott, President and CEO of the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP).

He highlighted that China’s foreign policy, including its approach to the United States, has remained stable and consistent, reflecting the country’s determination and credibility as a major global power. According to Wang, China is committed to improving and advancing its relationship with the U.S. based on mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation, regardless of any changes in the U.S. administration.

Wang referenced the remarks of Chinese President Xi Jinping during his recent meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden at the 31st APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Lima, Peru, in which Xi reiterated China’s expectations for future Sino-U.S. relations. He emphasized that China’s goals for stable, healthy, and sustainable ties with the U.S. remain unchanged. Furthermore, China’s commitment to the principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation, as well as its resolve to safeguard its sovereignty, security, and development interests, will persist.

“The future direction of China-U.S. relations depends on the choices made by the U.S.,” Wang said, expressing hope that both sides will work together to meet each other halfway. He urged the U.S. to stay committed to steady relations with China and to take steps that will stabilize bilateral ties.

Wang also emphasized the need for the U.S. to develop a correct strategic outlook on China’s rise. He reiterated that China’s development and revitalization are inevitable, asserting that China does not seek to challenge or replace the U.S. Rather, the U.S. should not be fixated on competing with China, but rather focus on fostering a cooperative relationship.

Wang stressed the importance of dialogue, noting that while it may not resolve all issues, it can enhance mutual understanding, prevent miscalculations, and advance cooperation. He underscored that the U.S. should avoid crossing the red lines in bilateral relations, particularly regarding the Taiwan question, which he said remains a core issue for China’s sovereignty. Wang called on the U.S. to honor its commitment to the one-China principle and respect the development path chosen by the Chinese people.

The Chinese Foreign Minister also urged continued cultural and people-to-people exchanges between the two countries, asserting that these should not be reversed. He reiterated China’s support for facilitating greater exchange between citizens of both countries and welcomed more U.S. nationals to visit China.

The U.S. delegation expressed its commitment to strengthening U.S.-China relations, promoting common ground, and enhancing mutual understanding. Recognizing that U.S.-China relations have faced challenges throughout history, the NCAFP underscored the importance of effective communication, strategic dialogue, and people-to-people exchanges, particularly at this pivotal moment of transition for the U.S. administration.

The NCAFP delegation reaffirmed its role in fostering positive development in U.S.-China relations, emphasizing the significance of maintaining stable bilateral ties for the benefit of both nations and the world.