“Xi Jinping and Antony Blinken Discuss Impact of US-China Relations on Global Future”

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with China’s President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on June 19. This significant meeting occurred on Blinken’s second day in China, following his discussions with top Chinese officials, including Foreign Minister Qin Gang and Diplomat Wang Yi.

During the 35-minute session, both leaders engaged in what Blinken described as “candid, substantive, and constructive” talks. Xi emphasized the importance of stabilizing and improving U.S.-China relations, stating that such ties affect the “future and destiny of humanity.” He remarked, “Planet Earth is big enough to accommodate the respective development and common prosperity of China and the United States,” acknowledging the global concern regarding their relationship.

Xi reiterated that China respects U.S. interests and does not seek to challenge or displace the United States. He urged both countries to act responsibly and to adhere to the common understanding reached with U.S. President Joe Biden during their meeting at the G20 summit in Bali in November 2022.

In response, Blinken conveyed Biden’s greetings to Xi and reaffirmed that the U.S. is committed to managing their relations responsibly. He emphasized that the U.S. does not seek a new Cold War, does not aim to change China’s political system, and does not support “Taiwan independence.”

While discussing military communications, Blinken noted that China has not agreed to resume military-to-military talks, which he highlighted as a priority. This follows previous reports of China declining a meeting between the defense chiefs of both nations during the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore.

Overall, Blinken stated that the objectives of his trip were met, despite the challenges involved, and acknowledged that progress in U.S.-China relations requires time. This visit marked the first time in five years that a U.S. Secretary of State met with Xi, reflecting a renewed focus on dialogue and cooperation.