As expected, the visit of U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken to China did not bring any new developments; it rather highlighted the divisions between Beijing and Washington, especially regarding Taiwan.
On Monday, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken affirmed that discussion with China is the best way to manage bilateral relations, indicating that Washington does not accept changes to the status quo in Taiwan and supports a peaceful solution. In a press conference at the conclusion of his visit to China, he stated that his country manages a complex relationship with China through diplomatic means, noting that he invited Chinese Foreign Minister to visit Washington to continue discussions. He clarified that the U.S. trusts China in ensuring global food security and the ongoing export of grains from Ukraine. He also emphasized the importance of securing global supply chains based on the principle of fair trade. He stated that he urged Chinese officials to pressure Russia to end the war in Ukraine.
Additionally, he explained that American companies want to remain in the Chinese market, which poses a significant risk otherwise, and that he raised American concerns regarding Chinese business practices with Chinese officials. He reported that he conveyed to Chinese officials that Washington does not aim to contain China economically, indicating that economic cooperation with China benefits everyone. In this context, he affirmed that Washington does not seek to sever its relationship with China but will not hesitate to protect its interests.
Regarding relations with Moscow, he mentioned receiving assurances from China that it has not sent lethal weapons to Russia, highlighting the necessity for China to be cautious in supporting Russia.
Earlier, the U.S. Secretary of State met with Chinese President Xi Jinping, concluding a rare and crucial visit to Beijing aimed at preventing the numerous disputes between the competing powers from escalating into conflict. The two sides held a meeting attended by delegations from both countries. Blinken also held extensive discussions with senior Chinese diplomat Wang Yi earlier in the day, as well as with Foreign Minister Qin Gang the day before. However, it seems that the conversations held at the state guesthouse did not yield significant progress on the multiple disputes between the two countries, which include Taiwan, trade, human rights, the flow of fentanyl—a synthetic opioid originating from China—and reconciling divergent views regarding the war in Ukraine.
During over three hours of discussions with Wang, which the U.S. State Department described as "constructive," Blinken stressed the need to open communication channels between the two countries. The tone from Beijing during Blinken's visit was particularly clear concerning Taiwan, the democratic island that China claims as part of its territory. Wang stated, "China has no intention of compromising or making concessions," according to Chinese statements.
