China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi criticized the United States for holding onto incorrect perceptions of China and not fully honoring its commitments since the meeting between President Joe Biden and President Xi Jinping last November.
In a news conference during the National People’s Congress in Beijing, Wang emphasized that mutual respect and acknowledgment of differences are crucial for ongoing dialogue between the two nations.
He expressed concern over the U.S.’s continued efforts to suppress China, including extending unilateral sanctions and making unfounded accusations.
Despite these tensions, Wang acknowledged Biden’s assurances that the U.S. does not seek a new Cold War, aim to alter China’s system, or support Taiwan’s independence.
Wang also addressed various international relations topics, including China’s partnership with Russia and the conflict in Ukraine, its relationships with Europe, and challenges facing China’s economy and the role of artificial intelligence (AI).
He announced China’s intention to propose a United Nations General Assembly draft resolution on AI, emphasizing the importance of human control over AI technologies.
Despite some easing of tensions following Biden and Xi’s landmark summit in San Francisco, the relationship between the U.S. and China remains strained, influenced by concerns over Taiwan, technological competition, trade disputes, and a controversial Chinese spy balloon incident.
Wang criticized U.S. efforts to hinder China’s technological and industrial development and cautioned against the potential escalation of military tensions in East Asia.
He called on the U.S. to adopt an objective and pragmatic approach to China’s development.
Wang’s comments come amid ongoing geopolitical challenges for China, including trade and security disputes with Europe, Japan, and the Philippines, particularly concerning the South China Sea.
He expressed China’s willingness to deepen cooperation with Russia and highlighted a “no limits” partnership declared in February 2022, shortly before Russia’s military action in Ukraine.
Additionally, Wang announced an expansion of China’s visa-free travel program to include several European countries, part of China’s broader efforts to enhance international exchanges and cooperation.