Relations between the two states have reached crisis levels causing China’s vice-foreign minister, Le Yucheng to warn the state will not give an inch to the US. Due to the controversial Hong Kong security law, the build-up of arms in the South China Sea and sanctions on Communist party members over the treatment of Uighur Muslims, relations have soured between the two states. He also insisted the months leading to the US election in November will be crucial in forming a new Sino-US relationship.
Le said on Wednesday: “On issues concerning China’s core interests and national dignity, there is simply no room for us to back down.
“If we give up an inch, they will ask us to back off a mile and through salami tactics they will never stop undermining China’s sovereignty and dignity.
“Some Americans had blamed China for being a free rider.
“But when China poured in more money to provide public goods, then they blamed us for having strategic intentions and trying to be a hegemony.”
Le also remained adamant China would not be threatened by sanctions from the US.
He also claimed China was not seeking a dominant role in global affairs, despite accusations from the West.
Chinese officials had also warned the US over Health Secretary, Alex Azar’s trip to Taiwan this week.
Although Mr Azar claimed the visit was to strengthen ties amid the coronavirus pandemic, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesman warned Beijing firmly opposes any interaction between the two.
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Amid the concerns from the island and the worsening tensions between the US and China, Le did admit Beijing still insisted talks were still a possibility.
He said: “We must stay focused without being swayed by any extreme forces, keep to the right direction of the bilateral relationship, and prevent it from spiralling out of control or getting derailed.
“First, keep the lines of communication open.
“Dialogue should not be put on hold. In particular, there should be no ‘radio silence’ between the two foreign ministries.
“That means no matter how difficult and complex the issues may be, they should be put on the table.
“I myself stand ready for talks with my US counterpart at any time.”
Despite his calls for open dialogue between the two, Taiwan stated Chinese jets had been sent over the border towards the island.