China-US Cooperation: Not an Option, But an Imperative,” Declares Wang Yi

The 45th anniversary of China-US diplomatic ties was marked by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s keynote address on the importance of understanding and collaboration.

China-US cooperation ‘no longer an option’, but ‘an imperative’: Wang Yi (Photo: Google)

China’s Call for Collaboration Amidst Tensions

Wang said collaboration is critical for countries and the world. China-US tensions have been fueled by national security, global wars, trade barriers, climate change, and the Taiwan dilemma. Allegations of flying high-altitude balloons in respective airspaces intensified the diplomatic conflict last year.

These difficulties heightened regional tensions over disputed territory as the two nations competed in South China Sea military drills. Wang urged the US to relax and respect China’s choices and growth path with equality and inclusivity.

He noted China’s “strong endogenous momentum,” allowing it to contribute more to global peace and development without pursuing hegemony, and its commitment to a stable, healthy, and sustainable partnership based on mutual respect.

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China’s Denial of Hegemony Amidst Concerns and US Optimism

The US and its allies are concerned about a developing alliance between China and Russia, but Wang said China does not want hegemony. Despite contrasts in nations’ origins, he advised avoiding conflict and used penalties sparingly to exercise influence. With the year starting amid international issues, many fear interpersonal turmoil.

In 2024, US Deputy Chief of Mission in Beijing David Meale voiced confidence about properly managing the bilateral relationship, noting US Embassy staff’s dedication to collaboration.

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