The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated today that it intends to introduce more stability into international relations during the summit between the Chinese and American presidents this Wednesday in Beijing.
According to Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun, the People’s Republic of China “intends to work” with the United States on a basis of equality and in a “spirit of respect and concern for mutual interests.”
The diplomatic spokesperson added that Beijing’s position aims to develop cooperation, manage differences, and create “more stability and security for a world [that is] unstable and interdependent.”
United States President Donald Trump will conduct a state visit to China from Wednesday to Friday at the invitation of his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping. Beijing officially confirmed the trip today, two days before its start, after the U.S. Administration had previously scheduled the visit for the announced dates.
Read more about this topic: Trump plans to “put pressure” on Xi during his visit to China
This trip follows the trade truce agreed upon by the two leaders in October in the South Korean city of Busan. This marks the first visit by a U.S. President to Beijing since Trump’s 2017 visit during his first term.
Conversely, China today accused the United States of “defaming” other countries by “exploiting the war situation” in Iran, after Washington sanctioned three Chinese satellite companies for allegedly facilitating Iranian military operations.
The Foreign Ministry spokesperson added that the People’s Republic of China “firmly opposes” unilateral sanctions “without basis in international law” and assured that Beijing will defend the “legitimate rights and interests” of Chinese companies.
The State Department announced sanctions on Friday against Chinese firms Chang Guang Satellite Technology, The Earth Eye, and MizarVision, accusing them of providing satellite imagery that allegedly facilitated Iranian attacks against U.S. forces in the Middle East.
When questioned about reports that Donald Trump would pressure Xi Jinping regarding China’s stance on Iran during the visit, Guo reiterated that Beijing’s position “has been consistent” and stated that China will continue to play a “constructive role” in promoting a ceasefire and committing to a negotiating framework.
