Beijing: China has said it wants to maintain communication with the United States but warned that it will firmly protect its core interests and red lines as tensions between the two countries continue.
Lou Qinjian, spokesperson for China’s National People’s Congress, made the remarks ahead of the opening of the country’s annual parliamentary session in Beijing. He said China is ready to strengthen communication and cooperation with the United States at different levels.
At the same time, he stressed that Beijing will firmly safeguard its sovereignty, security and development interests. He said these issues represent China’s red lines and cannot be crossed.
Lou said stable relations between the two major powers are important for global stability and economic growth. He added that China hopes the United States will work with it in a spirit of mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.
He also urged the US Congress to take a more objective view of China and play a constructive role in improving relations between the two countries.
The comments come at a time when both sides are trying to manage tensions over trade, technology and security issues. Taiwan remains one of the most sensitive matters between Washington and Beijing, with China repeatedly warning that it considers the island part of its territory.
Officials from both countries are expected to hold trade level discussions later this month before a possible meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald J Trump.
China’s leadership is also preparing to outline its economic priorities and growth targets for the year during the National People’s Congress, one of the country’s most important political meetings. Analysts say Beijing is trying to balance economic recovery at home while managing strategic competition with the United States.