Blinken draws the line, meets top Chinese diplomat, pledges to hold hackers 'accountable'

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and China's top diplomat Wang Yi embarked on talks in Jakarta, Indonesia, marking their second meeting in consecutive months.

The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) discussions, reported AFP.

While the two officials exchanged greetings without addressing reporters, their encounter occurred shortly after Microsoft reported a recent breach of US government email accounts by Chinese hackers, including those of the State Department.

What did the talks entail?

During discussions in Jakarta, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken conveyed to China's top diplomat, Wang Yi, that the United States will ensure that hackers are held responsible for alleged breaches of US government agencies.

According to an anonymous senior US official, Blinken emphasised that any actions targeting US government entities, American citizens, or US companies are a matter of grave concern.

The official stated that appropriate measures will be taken to hold those responsible accountable, reported AFP.

The Jakarta talks follow Blinken's visit to Beijing, the first by a US secretary of state in nearly five years. During his visit, Blinken engaged with President Xi Jinping, Wang Yi, and Foreign Minister Qin Gang.

However, in Jakarta, Wang represented Beijing instead of Qin, who was unable to attend due to health reasons, as stated by the Chinese foreign ministry.

US-China tensions have escalated significantly in recent years due to various factors, including China's increasing assertiveness in the region and the US imposing extensive restrictions on the export of advanced semiconductors.

Despite these challenges, Blinken's visit to Beijing initiated a flurry of diplomatic exchanges, with Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen visiting last week and a forthcoming trip by climate envoy John Kerry.

The meeting in Jakarta between Blinken and Wang sets the stage for discussions between the two countries amidst the backdrop of strained relations.

Both nations continue to grapple with complex issues, seeking avenues for cooperation while managing areas of contention.

Also watch |United States confirms hackers breach 2 organisations

The outcome of these talks could have far-reaching implications for US-China relations and regional dynamics in Southeast Asia.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE: