China has urged the United States to exercise “the utmost caution” over Taiwan, warning that any misstep could seriously undermine relations between the world’s two largest economies.
According to China’s Foreign Ministry, Foreign Minister Wang Yi delivered the message during a phone call with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Tuesday.
“A slight move on the Taiwan issue could affect the whole situation,” Wang said, stressing that both countries should work together to manage risks and prevent tensions from escalating.
The conversation followed a summit held in Beijing in mid-May between Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump, during which Xi reportedly warned that mishandling the Taiwan issue could push US-China relations into “an extremely dangerous place.”
China regards the self-governed island of Taiwan as part of its territory and has repeatedly refused to rule out the use of military force to bring it under Beijing’s control.
Taiwan rejects China’s sovereignty claims, while the United States is legally obligated under its domestic law to provide the island with the means to defend itself.
During the call, Wang also said both countries should work towards building a “constructive and strategically stable relationship.”
“Both sides should eliminate disruptions, overcome obstacles, and continue firmly along this correct direction,” he said.
China’s Foreign Ministry added that Wang and Rubio agreed to maintain communication through flexible channels moving forward.
The US State Department did not immediately comment on the phone conversation.
