Wang Yi, a high-ranking member of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission, held talks with U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan in Bangkok, Thailand. The meeting, which took place on January 26, 2024, aimed to discuss important and sensitive issues in China-U.S. relations and implement the consensus reached by the leaders of both countries in San Francisco.
During the talks, both sides engaged in candid and substantive discussions, resulting in fruitful strategic communication. Wang emphasized the significance of the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the U.S., urging both countries to learn from past experiences and treat each other as equals. He stressed the importance of seeking common ground while acknowledging differences, respecting each other’s core interests, and working together to find a harmonious way for China and the United States to coexist.
Wang further highlighted that the Taiwan question remains an internal affair for China, emphasizing that the recent election in Taiwan does not alter the fact that it is part of China. He asserted that Taiwan independence poses the biggest risk to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, which also challenges China-U.S. relations. He called on the U.S. side to abide by the one-China principle and the three China-U.S. joint communiqués, actively support peaceful reunification, and refrain from supporting Taiwan independence.
Moreover, Wang acknowledged the legitimate national security concerns of each country but cautioned against politicizing or exaggerating the concept of national security. He urged for reasonable and measured responses, without using such concerns as a pretext to suppress or contain other countries’ development.
Both sides agreed to further discussions on the boundaries between national security and economic activities, recognizing the need for a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between these aspects.
In addition to China-U.S. relations, the talks encompassed discussions on various regional and international issues, including the Middle East, Ukraine, the Korean Peninsula, and the South China Sea.
As part of their efforts to enhance bilateral cooperation, the two sides committed to implementing the San Francisco vision. They emphasized the importance of regular contact between leaders, increased exchanges across various fields, and effective utilization of existing strategic communication channels and dialogue mechanisms. Furthermore, they agreed to explore the guiding principles of China-U.S. relations, launch initiatives in areas of common interest such as counter-narcotics cooperation and artificial intelligence, and expand people-to-people exchanges.
The meeting between Wang Yi and Jake Sullivan reflects the commitment of both China and the United States to maintaining open and constructive dialogue, finding common ground, and promoting a mutually beneficial relationship. The talks serve as a step towards fostering understanding and cooperation amidst the complexity of bilateral and global challenges.
