China demands US respect 'fundamental interests' in talks with Marco Rubio

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi pressed the United States to respect its "fundamental interests" during a bilateral meeting with Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Manila. The encounter took place on the sidelines of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) foreign ministers' meeting in the Philippine capital.

The high-level discussion coincides with a peak in tensions in the South China Sea. Beijing is embroiled in sovereignty disputes with several Southeast Asian nations in the region. A recent confrontation between Chinese and Philippine coast guards on Monday has further escalated these concerns, particularly given Washington's mutual defense treaty with the Philippines.

The U.S. State Department had previously condemned Beijing's "dangerous and aggressive actions" in these waters, calling for an immediate cessation of "destabilizing conduct." According to a statement from China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Wang Yi emphasized Beijing's firm stance on recent negative U.S. statements and actions, demanding respect for China's core interests.

China claims sovereignty over almost the entire South China Sea, a vital global shipping route. This claim conflicts with those of the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan. The situation poses a significant risk of an indirect conflict between China and the U.S., with Washington bound by a mutual defense pact with the Philippines.

Despite the underlying tensions, Beijing characterized the meeting as "positive and constructive." Both sides reportedly agreed to utilize political and diplomatic channels to foster a positive direction in their bilateral relationship. The statement highlighted this as a significant step toward peaceful coexistence, aligning with the fundamental interests of both peoples and international expectations. Views were also exchanged on "hotspots of international conflict," though specific details were not provided.

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the firm position of China on the recent series of negative statements and actions by the United States, demanding that this country respect China's fundamental interests.