US Sullivan Emphasizes "Complete Denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula" in Talks with China

Jake Sullivan, the U.S. National Security Advisor, emphasized the policy of "complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula" to China during his visit.

According to the White House on the 29th (local time), Sullivan, who completed a three-day visit to China, said at a briefing on the results of his visit held at the U.S. Embassy in Beijing, "In every meeting I attended in Beijing, I emphasized the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and reaffirmed the United States' commitment to the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula." Earlier, the Democratic Party platform adopted at the convention held from the 19th to the 22nd had removed references to 'North Korean denuclearization,' sparking controversy.

Jake Sullivan, U.S. White House National Security Advisor Photo by Yonhap News

원본보기 아이콘

Sullivan stated that he reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to its Indo-Pacific alliances to the Chinese side and conveyed the message not to interfere in the U.S. election. He explained, "Every time I meet with Chinese officials, I raise the issue of election interference and clearly emphasize that no country’s interference in U.S. elections is acceptable."

When asked if Chinese officials expressed concerns ahead of the U.S. administration change, he said, "They understand that elections and the transfer of power are sensitive times and that responsible management during this period is important," adding, "My visit during this time helps efforts to responsibly manage the upcoming sensitive period."

Regarding whether a U.S.-China summit would take place, Sullivan responded, "Both leaders are likely to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) and the Group of Twenty (G20) summits later this year, and if they attend, it would be natural for them to have an opportunity to sit down together."

Just before the briefing, Sullivan had a surprise meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. During his visit, he also met with Wang Yi, director of the Office of the Central Foreign Affairs Commission of the Chinese Communist Party and China’s top diplomat, as well as Zhang Youxia, vice chairman of the Central Military Commission and the second-highest-ranking official in the Chinese military.

Regarding the meeting with Vice Chairman Zhang Youxia, Sullivan said, "This is something that has not happened for eight years for U.S. officials, and it is significant in itself," explaining, "Because it can provide momentum and drive to the communication channels between the military authorities." He also noted that a call between the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command commander and the commander of China’s Southern Theater Command will take place soon, which is a result of the meeting with Vice Chairman Zhang.

In a statement released that day, the White House confirmed the meeting between President Xi and Sullivan, stating that both sides discussed several issues including the Taiwan Strait situation, the war in Ukraine, and the South China Sea. It added that President Xi and Sullivan welcomed ongoing efforts to maintain open lines of communication, including plans for a phone call between President Biden and President Xi "within the next few weeks" following their meeting.

© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.