From the Start of the US-China Talks, 'Verbal Clash'; Chinese Foreign Ministry: "Full of 'Gunpowder Smell' from the Beginning"

US-China Mutual Blame on Responsibility... Zhao Spokesperson Claims "US Aggressively Attacks China's Domestic and Foreign Policies"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Cheol-young] Regarding the high-level US-China talks held in Anchorage, Alaska, which showed signs of a power struggle from the outset, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed strong displeasure in a harsh tone.

On the 19th, Zhao Lijian, spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said at a regular briefing, "The talks were filled with the smell of gunpowder from the start, which was not what China hoped for," adding, "When the Chinese delegation arrived in Alaska, they felt not only the cold weather but also the attitude of the host, the United States, towards its guests."

Both sides revealed differences and engaged in verbal clashes from the beginning of the talks, concluding both the first and second rounds empty-handed. Attending the talks were US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan. On the Chinese side, Yang Jiechi, member of the Political Bureau of the Chinese Communist Party responsible for foreign affairs, and Wang Yi, State Councilor and Foreign Minister, participated.

Both sides extended their opening remarks, originally scheduled for two minutes, to nearly an hour, fervently blaming each other for all situations. Regarding criticism that China's opening remarks were longer than the US's, spokesperson Zhao emphasized, "The United States exceeded its speaking time and recklessly attacked China's domestic and foreign policies, causing disputes."

He also stated that no interference in China's internal affairs would be tolerated. Zhao insisted, "We want the United States to clearly understand that China will not allow any interference in its internal affairs." Earlier in the talks, Yang Jiechi told Secretary Blinken regarding Hong Kong, Taiwan, and the Uyghur issues, "Before caring about Uyghur human rights, the United States should first resolve human rights issues of minorities within its own country."

However, he added that the opening remarks were merely an appetizer and expressed hope for the stable development of US-China relations. Zhao said, "We believe this dialogue is a good opportunity for both sides to communicate, manage conflicts, and cooperate," adding, "It holds important significance for leading the development of China-US relations for some time to come."

[Image source=Yonhap News]

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.