China's Top Diplomat Holds Key Meetings with U.S. Ambassador to China Amid Diplomatic Talks
China's top diplomat engages in high-level talks with U.S. ambassador, signaling ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi officially welcomed David Perdue, the new U.S. ambassador to China, during a meeting held Tuesday in Beijing. In his first high-level encounter since assuming the post, Perdue was encouraged by Wang to actively promote the healthy, steady, and sustainable development of ties between the two countries.
Wang, who also serves as a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, emphasized the significance of Perdue’s role, urging him to act as a reliable communicator, a mediator in addressing differences, and a facilitator of cooperation. Stressing the current significance of China-U.S. relations, Wang described this period as “an important and critical juncture.” He reflected on the complex path the relationship has taken since formal diplomatic ties were established nearly five decades ago, highlighting that equality and respect are essential preconditions for meaningful engagement, while dialogue and collaboration remain the only constructive options.
Regarding recent economic interactions, Wang pointed to the bilateral trade talks in Geneva, noting that China had strictly adhered to the consensus achieved. However, he expressed regret and concern over what he described as a series of "negative measures" recently implemented by the United States, claiming these actions infringe upon China’s legitimate rights and interests. Wang asserted that China “firmly opposes such actions,” signaling persistent tensions and unresolved issues between the two governments.
Emphasizing the way forward, Wang called on the United States to “meet China halfway” and to genuinely implement the important understandings reached between the two heads of state during their January phone call. He further urged the U.S. to help create a favorable atmosphere for restoring bilateral relations to a more positive trajectory.
In response, Ambassador Perdue conveyed President Donald Trump’s respect for President Xi Jinping and underscored the importance of maintaining open and constructive communication at the highest level. Perdue reiterated his readiness, as the U.S. ambassador, to maintain close contact with his Chinese counterparts, reaffirming his commitment to fostering dialogue based on mutual respect and attentive engagement.
The exchange underlined both sides’ acknowledgment of current challenges but also suggested potential avenues for future cooperation, as diplomatic channels reopen and high-level contacts resume.
