Efforts to Improve Relations? China Holds Successive Foreign Minister Talks with Western Countries Including the US, Australia, and Germany

The King and China's State Councilor and Foreign Minister
[Photo by AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Hyunjin] China held consecutive foreign minister meetings with Western countries such as the United States, Australia, and Germany on the occasion of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly.

According to the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the 24th, Wang Yi, Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister, met with Penny Wong, Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs, and Annalena Baerbock, German Foreign Minister, on the 22nd (local time) in New York, USA, where he visited to attend the UN General Assembly. The next day, on the 23rd, he also met with Tony Blinken, U.S. Secretary of State.

Minister Wang emphasized the stability of bilateral relations to Minister Wong, stating, "China hopes to properly resolve differences with Australia and promote the healthy and stable development of bilateral relations." He also highly praised Australia's adherence to the 'One China' policy and emphasized the hope that both sides will create more 'win-win' stories, expand people-to-people exchanges and interregional cooperation, and foster a positive atmosphere for the development of bilateral relations.

Minister Wang also met with Minister Baerbock and said, "Since there is no fundamental conflict of interests between the two countries, communication should be strengthened and mutual understanding enhanced," adding, "We hope to deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries and fulfill the responsibilities that major powers must bear together with Germany."

Following this, Minister Wang also held talks with Secretary Blinken to discuss current issues in bilateral relations.

China has recently been attempting diplomatic contacts with Western countries, which have taken a hard line on issues such as the COVID-19 origin investigation, the Ukraine war, and the Taiwan issue. As the Ukraine war prolongs and the perception that Russia and China are on the same side continues, it is evaluated that China is seeking to improve relations with the West.

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