Foreign Minister Wang Yi spoke with United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio by telephone on Friday, saying both sides should maintain communications, manage differences, and expand cooperation to promote the stable, healthy, and sustainable development of China-US relations.
The conversation was the first interaction between the two senior diplomats since Rubio assumed the position on Monday.
According to a readout from the Foreign Ministry, Wang, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, told Rubio that the leadership of the CPC is the choice of the Chinese people, and China's development is driven by clear historical logic and strong internal momentum.
"Our goal is to improve the lives of our people and make greater contributions to the world. We have no intention of surpassing or replacing anyone, but we must defend our legitimate right to development," Wang said.
He also elaborated on China's stance on the Taiwan question, and urged the US to handle the issue with the utmost caution.
Wang also reminded the US side of its solemn commitment to the One-China principle in the three China-US joint communiques, stressing that Washington must not renege on its promises.
And he also pointed out that major powers must act responsibly, maintain world peace, and assist in the shared development of all nations.
Wang expressed hope that Rubio would make the right decisions and play a constructive role for the future of the people of both nations and for global peace and stability.
Rubio conveyed the readiness of the US side to conduct candid communication with China, properly handle differences, and manage bilateral relations in a mature and prudent manner, according to the readout from the Foreign Ministry.
He also reaffirmed that the US does not support "Taiwan independence" and that it hopes for a peaceful resolution to the Taiwan question in a manner acceptable to both sides of the Strait.
