Wang Yi, China’s top diplomat, urged the United States on Sunday to resolve its differences with China, as tensions continue over trade tariffs and geopolitical issues.
Speaking at China’s annual “Two Sessions” political gathering, Wang criticized U.S. tariff barriers and policies aimed at supply chain decoupling, saying such actions are “akin to trying to extinguish a fire with fuel” and warning they would backfire. He stressed that while China and the U.S. “cannot change each other,” they can change how they interact, urging both sides to manage differences and reduce unnecessary interference.
Wang also addressed a range of global issues. On the Middle East conflict, he condemned U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, calling the war unnecessary and warning against returning to “the law of the jungle.” Regarding Ukraine, he affirmed that China’s ties with Russia remain “steadfast and unshakeable,” despite Western criticism of China’s support for Moscow.
He highlighted improving relations with Europe, noting visits from leaders of France, Canada, Finland, and the U.K., and praised moves such as visa-free agreements and tariff reductions, emphasizing that “more and more insightful Europeans agree that China is not a competitor, but a global partner.”
However, Wang reaffirmed that Taiwan remains a red line. He warned that China “will never allow anyone or any force to separate Taiwan… from China once again,” a stance that continues to strain ties with the U.S. and has also created friction with Japan following suggestions of potential military intervention by Tokyo.
The remarks come ahead of a planned meeting in Beijing in April between Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump.
