Secretary of State Marco Rubio told Chinese Foreign Minister and Director of the CCP Central Foreign Affairs Commission Wang Yi that the Trump administration will prioritize the “American people” and advance US interests in its relationship with China, according to a readout from spokesperson Tammy Bruce. The meeting was the first between Rubio and Wang since Rubio’s confirmation by the Senate to become President Donald Trump’s first Cabinet official.
Rubio stressed the US’ commitment to its allies in the region and expressed concern over China’s coercive actions against Taiwan and in the South China Sea. He also discussed other issues of bilateral, regional, and global importance with Wang.
Wang, on the other hand, hoped that Rubio would “conduct” himself well and play a constructive role in the future of Chinese-American relations, adding that Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping had already set the tone for US-China relations. He suggested that the teams of both sides should implement the important consensus of the two heads of state, maintain good communication, manage differences, expand cooperation, and promote the stable and sustainable development of China-US relations.
Rubio’s comments came as Trump administration officials have threatened China with 10% tariffs on imports over its role in fentanyl trafficking, starting as early as February 1. Rubio has also referred to China as the “gravest threat to the US” during his confirmation hearing.