Beijing Lashes Out at US ‘Suppression’ Ahead of Blinken Visit
A Chinese foreign ministry official has denounced the United States for taking measures to suppress China’s economy and trade, accusing Washington of “seriously harming” Chinese interests. The unnamed official, from the foreign ministry’s North American and Oceanian affairs department, stated that the US was “not removing risks but creating risks” with its actions.
The official maintained that the US was “stubbornly advancing its strategy to contain China” and engaging in “wrong words and deeds” that interfered in China’s internal affairs, tarnished its image, and jeopardized its economic well-being.
The official dismissed Washington’s concerns over China’s industrial overcapacity as a “false narrative”, labeling it “outright economic coercion and bullying.” The official accused the US of seeking to suppress China’s industrial development for its own competitive advantage.
Beijing warned that it would “respond resolutely” to any attempts by the US to curb China’s scientific and technological progress, deeming it a violation of the Chinese people’s right to development.
Ahead of Blinken’s visit, the official outlined China’s priorities: increased dialogue, deeper cooperation, and collaboration on global issues such as the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.
While emphasizing China’s openness to dialogue, the official cautioned that the US must engage in genuine communication and avoid duplicity. Beijing expressed its opposition to the formation of an anti-China bloc by Washington and asserted that it would make its stance clear on issues such as Taiwan, trade, science and technology, and the South China Sea during the upcoming talks.
China reiterated its opposition to American intervention in the South China Sea and accused the US of “sowing discord” between Beijing and its Southeast Asian neighbors.
The official criticized the US deployment of a medium-range missile launcher to the Philippines, arguing that such actions exacerbated tensions and increased the risk of miscalculation in the region.
Observers believe that the recent remarks from Beijing reflect growing discontent with Washington’s actions. They warn that tensions between China and the US have reached dangerously high levels and that a conflict could be triggered by any misstep.
The upcoming talks between Blinken and Chinese officials are expected to address US concerns about Chinese support for Russia’s defense industry and the Middle East crisis. However, expectations for significant progress are low, as both sides have only engaged in minimal efforts to prevent a further deterioration in relations.
