China's Foreign Minister Warns of Choice Between Stability and Potential 'Downward Spiral' in Talks with Blinken

China and the US are at a crossroads, facing a decision between stability and a potential "downward spiral." Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi expressed this sentiment to his American counterpart, Antony Blinken, during their meeting in Beijing on Friday. This meeting marked the beginning of a day of discussions between top officials from both countries.

Blinken's visit to China, his second in a year, is a significant moment as both nations strive to improve communication and stabilize their sometimes turbulent relationship. However, they must also address challenging issues such as China's support for Russia, its actions in the South China Sea, and its stance towards Taiwan.

"During a meeting at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse, Wang told Blinken that it is crucial for China and the United States to continue moving forward in a positive and stable direction. The question of whether we should maintain this path or risk descending into a downward spiral tests our sincerity and ability."

He emphasized the importance of our two countries leading international cooperation to address global issues and achieve mutual benefits for all. Wang also warned about the consequences of engaging in rivalry, confrontation, or conflict, which would result in a lose-lose situation for everyone involved.

Wang’s remarks come amidst Chinese officials expressing frustration over actions taken by Washington in the name of national security, which Beijing interprets as attempts to hinder its progress. These actions have included imposing controls on the export of high-tech goods to China that could be used for military purposes, as well as restrictions on US investment in specific high-tech industries in China.

Recently, US President Joe Biden signed a bill that could potentially result in a nationwide prohibition on the social media platform TikTok if its Chinese parent company ByteDance does not sell it – a move that Beijing has previously criticized.

Blinken emphasized the importance of a "shared responsibility" between the two countries to address differences and prevent misunderstandings or miscalculations in their communication.

He expressed hope for progress on areas of cooperation agreed upon by the presidents, while also seeking clarification on differences, intentions, and clear communication about each other's positions.

The trip is part of a series of important meetings, including a summit between President Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping in California last November, after a period of high tension.

Before the trip, officials from both countries indicated that the main goal of the visit would be to address issues in the relationship and discuss concerns.

The discussion will include addressing areas of disagreement.

Blinken will bring up China's economic and industrial assistance to Russia, enabling Moscow to sustain its conflict with Ukraine. He will also urge China to leverage its ties with Iran to promote a more peaceful approach in the Middle East.

During a briefing earlier this week, a Chinese Foreign Ministry official mentioned that Beijing has been actively involved in global issues such as the Middle East, Ukraine, and the Korean Peninsula. They emphasized the importance of the US also playing a constructive role in these matters.

In addition to addressing concerns about US technology restrictions, Wang is expected to highlight China's "red lines" in the relationship. One of the main concerns is how the US handles its unofficial ties with Taiwan.

China's ruling Communist Party insists that Taiwan is part of its territory, even though it has never governed the island. In recent years, there has been an increase in military threats towards Taiwan.

Before the meeting, Wang emphasized the importance of respecting each other's core interests. He urged the United States to refrain from interfering in China's internal matters, hindering its development, or crossing its boundaries regarding sovereignty, security, and development interests.

Editor's P/S:

The meeting between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken highlights the critical juncture in Sino-US relations, where the path forward remains uncertain. Amidst the backdrop of geopolitical tensions, both sides face the stark choice between stability or a potentially perilous decline. The upcoming discussions will grapple with complex issues, including China's support for Russia, its actions in the South China Sea, and its stance towards Taiwan.

Wang Yi's emphasis on respecting core interests and preventing a downward spiral underscores the need for mutual understanding and non-interference. While the US seeks to address concerns over China's military expansion and economic practices, China remains resolute in safeguarding its sovereignty and development. The ability of both nations to navigate these challenges will determine the future trajectory of their relationship, with far-reaching implications for global stability and prosperity.