China, U.S. Agree on Communication, Managing Differences in First High-Level Call

Foreign Minister Wang Yi and United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a telephone conversation on Friday. Both sides agreed on the importance of maintaining communication, managing differences, and expanding cooperation to promote the stable, healthy, and sustainable development of China-U.S. relations.

This was the first interaction between the two senior diplomats since Rubio assumed the position on Monday. Wang, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, emphasized that the leadership of the CPC is the choice of the Chinese people and that China's development is driven by clear historical logic and strong internal momentum.

Wang stated that China's goal is to improve the lives of its people and make greater contributions to the world. He stressed that China has no intention of surpassing or replacing anyone, but it must defend its legitimate right to development.

Wang also elaborated on China's stance on the Taiwan question, urging the U.S. to handle the issue with the utmost caution. He reminded the U.S. side of its solemn commitment to the One-China principle in the three China-U.S. joint communiques, emphasizing that Washington must not renege on its promises.

Wang pointed out that major powers must act responsibly, maintain world peace, and assist in the shared development of all nations. He expressed hope that Rubio would make the right decisions and play a constructive role for the future of the people of both nations and for global peace and stability.

Rubio conveyed the readiness of the U.S. side to conduct candid communication with China, properly handle differences, and manage bilateral relations in a mature and prudent manner. He also reaffirmed that the U.S. does not support "Taiwan independence" and that it hopes for a peaceful resolution to the Taiwan question in a manner acceptable to both sides of the Strait.