China, US step up high-level engagement to stabilise ties amid differences

BEIJING: Senior officials from China and the United States held a series of high-level interactions on Thursday, signalling renewed efforts to manage differences and stabilise bilateral relations.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi spoke by phone with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, while Vice Premier He Lifeng held a video call with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer.

During the conversation, Wang stressed that the Taiwan issue remains at the core of China’s interests and represents the most significant risk in China-US relations, urging Washington to honour its commitments and take steps to create conditions for deeper cooperation. He also underscored the role of head-of-state diplomacy as the “anchor” of ties, calling for expanded cooperation, effective management of differences and progress toward a stable, mutually respectful relationship.

Rubio described the US-China relationship as the most important bilateral relationship globally and emphasised the need for continued communication, coordination and careful handling of differences to maintain strategic stability.

Both sides also exchanged views on regional developments, including the situation in the Middle East, reflecting the global scope of their engagement.

Chinese experts said the parallel diplomatic and economic contacts sent a constructive signal, indicating a shared interest in maintaining stability despite ongoing tensions. Analysts noted that while Beijing continues to advocate steady ties, it expects Washington to demonstrate greater consistency through concrete actions.

Separately, the economic dialogue led by He Lifeng focused on implementing consensus reached by the two countries’ leaders and addressing key concerns in trade and economic relations. Officials described the discussions as candid and constructive, highlighting efforts to expand practical cooperation while managing disputes.

Observers said the simultaneous engagements underscore a broader attempt by both sides to keep relations on a stable footing amid complex geopolitical dynamics and growing global challenges.