Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan recently held high-level talks in Bangkok, where Wang emphasized the importance of the United States standing by its commitment not to support independence for Taiwan. In a statement, the Chinese foreign ministry said that Taiwan's recent election did not alter the fact that the island is an integral part of China and that the biggest challenge in U.S.-China relations is the issue of 'Taiwan independence.'
While U.S. President Joe Biden has made it clear that he does not support Taiwanese independence, U.S. law requires the provision of credible defense for Taiwan and treating any threats to the island as matters of 'grave concern.' Wang urged both sides to reflect on their past experiences and treat each other as equals, rather than adopting a condescending attitude. He emphasized the need for mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation as the basis for China-U.S. interactions.
The meeting between Wang and Sullivan was described by both governments as 'candid, substantive, and constructive.' This meeting follows their previous meetings in Malta and Vienna last year, culminating in a high-profile meeting between Presidents Biden and Xi Jinping in November. While the November talks produced modest agreements on combating illegal fentanyl and re-establishing military communications, they did not resolve the major differences between the two countries, many of which have international implications.
In a White House statement, Sullivan emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. China claims Taiwan as its own territory, and in recent years, it has expressed its displeasure at political activities in Taiwan by sending military planes and ships. Just hours before the meeting, Taiwan's defense ministry reported that China had dispatched more than 30 warplanes and a group of navy ships, including 13 warplanes that crossed the unofficial midline of the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan also reported that six Chinese balloons flew over or near the island, shortly after the election of President Lai Ching-te, whose Democratic Progressive Party campaigned on self-determination, social justice, and resistance to China's threats.
Beyond the Taiwan issue, Wang and Sullivan discussed a range of topics, including Russia's conflict with Ukraine, the situation in the Middle East, North Korea, the South China Sea, and Myanmar. The White House emphasized that while Washington and Beijing are competitors, it is crucial to prevent their relationship from descending into conflict or confrontation.
Both sides agreed that Presidents Biden and Xi would maintain regular contact to provide strategic guidance on bilateral relations and promote exchanges in various areas and at different levels. Additionally, they announced plans to establish a joint working group on anti-drug cooperation and hold the first meeting of the China-U.S. dialogue mechanism on artificial intelligence in the near future.
The meeting between Wang and Sullivan reflects the ongoing complexity and challenges in U.S.-China relations. While both countries seek to address their differences and maintain stability, issues such as Taiwan's status and regional disputes continue to pose significant hurdles. The outcome of their discussions will shape the trajectory of this crucial bilateral relationship for years to come.
