Marco Rubio tells Chinese foreign minister Trump admin will put ‘American people first’
Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently had a crucial conversation with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, emphasizing the Trump administration’s commitment to prioritizing the interests of the American people in its dealings with China. This discussion marked the first meeting between Rubio and Wang since the former senator’s confirmation as President Trump’s first Cabinet official.
During the call, Rubio reiterated the United States’ dedication to its allies in the region and expressed concerns about China’s coercive actions in Taiwan and the South China Sea. The discussion also touched upon various bilateral, regional, and global issues of significance between the two nations.
Wang, on his part, expressed hope that Rubio would play a constructive role in shaping the future relationship between the Chinese and American people, as well as promoting global peace and stability. He highlighted the groundwork laid by Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in setting the tone for U.S.-Chinese relations.
Looking ahead, Wang emphasized the importance of implementing the consensus reached by the two leaders, managing differences, expanding cooperation, and fostering the stable and sustainable development of China-U.S. relations in the new era.
Rubio’s confirmation hearing had previously underscored China as the most significant threat to the United States, a sentiment echoed by Trump’s threats of imposing tariffs on Chinese imports over fentanyl trafficking. The call between Rubio and Wang comes amidst escalating tensions between the two nations, with both sides seeking to navigate the complexities of their relationship in the current geopolitical landscape.
As Rubio embarks on his first trip as Secretary of State to Panama, the focus remains on advancing U.S. interests while engaging with key stakeholders in the region. The conversation with Wang serves as a crucial step in shaping the future trajectory of U.S.-Chinese relations and navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
