torsdag 7. oktober 2021

China welcomes ‘positive statements’ by US as talks hint at change of mood

The Chinese government has described this week’s talks with the US as constructive, with its top diplomat highlighting the importance of positive recent gestures by Washington in improving the atmosphere. The talks in Switzerland between Yang Jiechi and White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan ended without the confrontational tone that marred their previous meeting in March, in Anchorage, Alaska, with Beijing this time saying the discussion was “conducive to enhancing mutual understanding”.

Both have reportedly agreed to arrange a virtual summit between Chinese President Xi Jinping and his US counterpart Joe Biden before the end of the year. During six hours of talks in Zurich, differences over a wide range of issues were expressed but both sides vowed to maintain communication.