BEIJING: In a diplomatic encounter aimed at fostering constructive dialogue, China’s top diplomat, Foreign Minister Wang Yi, expressed his hope that the United States and China could handle their differences in a more rational manner during a meeting with visiting senior American lawmakers.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is the latest prominent American official to visit China as part of Washington’s efforts to alleviate tensions and engage in diplomatic discussions with Beijing. Leading a six-person delegation, Schumer reportedly sought a meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping.
Top diplomat Wang Yi hopes US, China can 'rationally' manage differences https://t.co/8bcPcbSsfR pic.twitter.com/OoUncVeoyU
— CNA (@ChannelNewsAsia) October 9, 2023
The meeting between Schumer and Wang Yi took place at Beijing’s Diaoyutai State Guesthouse, where the Chinese foreign minister conveyed his desire that the visit by the Senate delegation would contribute to managing the existing differences between the two nations in a more rational manner. He emphasized the importance of such an approach in guiding the relationship between the United States and China toward a path of healthy development.
Furthermore, Wang Yi expressed the hope that the visit would lead to a more accurate understanding of China by the American delegation. This gesture underscores the significance of enhancing mutual understanding and communication as a means to navigate complex bilateral relations.
In response, Schumer expressed gratitude for the warm reception from the Chinese delegation and outlined several key issues of great concern that he intended to address during his visit. Chief among his priorities was the pursuit of a “level playing field for American business and workers,” emphasizing fairness in economic matters as a top goal.
Schumer also articulated concerns regarding the accountability of China-based companies supplying chemicals associated with the fentanyl crisis in the United States. Additionally, he stressed the importance of ensuring that China does not support Russia’s actions in the conflict with Ukraine, aligning with international efforts to address the ongoing crisis.
Highlighting human rights as a significant priority, Schumer underscored his delegation’s commitment to advancing the cause of human rights.
However, Schumer also expressed disappointment regarding a recent statement from China’s foreign ministry issued on Sunday, which addressed the escalating violence between Israel and the Palestinians. Beijing’s statement called for calm and an immediate ceasefire but did not explicitly condemn a Palestinian attack that had resulted in casualties in Israel. Instead, it urged the establishment of a two-state solution to resolve the conflict.
Schumer conveyed his dismay, stating, “The ongoing events in Israel over the past few days are horrific. I urge you and the Chinese people to stand with the Israeli people and condemn these cowardly and vicious attacks.” He expressed concern that the foreign ministry’s statement did not convey sufficient sympathy or support for Israel during the challenging period of conflict.
Schumer’s visit to China and his interactions with Chinese officials represent a continuation of high-level diplomatic engagement between the United States and China. These efforts aim to address and manage a range of complex issues that have strained bilateral relations, including trade, human rights, and regional conflicts.
The meeting between Schumer and Wang Yi signifies a commitment to diplomatic dialogue as both countries seek to navigate their differences and explore opportunities for cooperation. It reflects the broader context of diplomatic visits by senior U.S. officials to China this year, with President Joe Biden also indicating the possibility of a meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping in November to further the goals of resetting ties between the two nations. However, as of now, no formal schedule has been announced for such a meeting.
