China hopes that Britain can stand by its position of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/chines-military-tells-us-military-plane-flying-over-south-china-sea-to-leave-immediately--158405?amp">not taking sides in the South China Sea</a> and earnestly respect China's sovereignty and territorial integrity, the Chinese government's top diplomat told Britain's foreign minister.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/british-navy-warship-sails-near-south-china-sea-islands-angering-beijing-163979">Also Read:&nbsp;British Navy warship sails near </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/british-navy-warship-sails-near-south-china-sea-islands-angering-beijing-163979">South</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/british-navy-warship-sails-near-south-china-sea-islands-angering-beijing-163979"> China Sea islands, angers China</a>

Beijing expressed anger after a British Royal Navy warship sailed close to islands claimed by China in the South China Sea late last month, saying Britain was engaged in "provocation" and that it had lodged a strong complaint.

China also warned that ties were at risk after the naval operation.

Chinese State Councillor Wang Yi met British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt on the sidelines of a United Nations meeting in New York on Monday and expressed China's "stern position" on the South China Sea, China's Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday.

China "hopes that Britain will truly implement its position of not taking sides in the South China Sea issue, earnestly respect China's sovereignty and territorial integrity and not do anything to disturb mutual trust between the two countries", it cited Wang as saying.

China and Britain, which have talked of a "golden era" of relations, agreed last month to look at the possibility of reaching a "top notch" post-Brexit free trade deal that promises an important political win for the conservative British government.

China's statement on Wang's meeting with Hunt made no mention of Brexit or the free trade deal.

China hopes that Britain can stand by its position of not taking sides in the South China Sea and earnestly respect China's sovereignty and territorial integrity, the Chinese government's top diplomat told Britain's foreign minister.

China hopes that Britain can stand by its position of not taking sides in the South China Sea and earnestly respect China's sovereignty and territorial integrity, the Chinese government's top diplomat told Britain's foreign minister. Also Read: British Navy warship sails near South China Sea islands, angers China Beijing expressed anger after a British Royal Navy warship sailed close to islands claimed by China in the South China Sea late last month, saying Britain was engaged in "provocation" and that it had lodged a strong complaint. China also warned that ties were at risk after the naval operation. Chinese State Councillor Wang Yi met British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt on the sidelines of a United Nations meeting in New York on Monday and expressed China's "stern position" on the South China Sea, China's Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday. China "hopes that Britain will truly implement its position of not taking sides in the South China Sea issue, earnestly respect China's sovereignty and territorial integrity and not do anything to disturb mutual trust between the two countries", it cited Wang as saying. China and Britain, which have talked of a "golden era" of relations, agreed last month to look at the possibility of reaching a "top notch" post-Brexit free trade deal that promises an important political win for the conservative British government. China's statement on Wang's meeting with Hunt made no mention of Brexit or the free trade deal.

Hope Britain does not take sides in South China Sea issue: China

China urged the United States on Thursday to make a "wise decision" on trade, saying it was ready to respond in case Washington chose confrontation, as US&nbspPresident Donald prepares to decide whether to activate tariffs on Chinese goods.

Trump is due to unveil revisions to his initial tariff list targeting $50 billion of Chinese goods on Friday. People familiar with the revisions said the list would be slightly smaller than the original, with some goods deleted and others added, particularly in the technology sector.

Another administration official said a draft document showed the new list would still be close to $50 billion, with about 1,300 product categories, but both the dollar amount and quantity of products were still subject to change.

Speaking to reporters in Beijing, with US&nbspSecretary of State Mike Pompeo at his side, the Chinese government's top diplomat, State Councillor Wang Yi, said there were two choices when it came to the trade issue.

"The first choice is cooperation and mutual benefit. The other choice is confrontation and mutual loss. China chooses the first," Wang said. "We hope the US&nbspside can also make the same wise choice. Of course, we have also made preparations to respond to the second kind of choice."

The move toward activating US&nbsptariffs on Chinese goods follows negotiations between US&nbspand Chinese officials centred on increased purchases by Beijing of American farm and energy commodities and cutting the US&nbsptrade deficit with China.

Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross this month met Chinese officials in Beijing and brought back a Chinese proposal to buy around $70 billion worth of additional commodities and manufactured goods. But that offer has not been accepted by Trump, people familiar with the matter said.

Wang said a basic consensus reached by the two countries during the recent talks was a pact to use "constructive means" to handle disagreements.

"We hope the US&nbspside can meet China halfway and earnestly implement this important consensus, and promote the appropriate resolution of the relevant issue through a win-win and not lose-lose manner," he said.

"In this process, we hope the US&nbspside does not unilaterally take any non-constructive actions, and does not create new obstacles for the next phase of consultations."&nbsp

Pompeo said the US&nbspdeficit with China was still too high, but that they had had good talks.

"I stressed how important it is for President Trump to rectify that situation so that trade becomes more balanced, more reciprocal and more fair, with the opportunity to have American workers be treated fairly. We had good and constructive discussions."

Pompeo struck a warm tone with Chinese President Xi Jinping, at a meeting later in the evening, including wishing him a happy birthday for Friday - eliciting a chuckle and a "thank you" from Xi.

"President Trump asked me to send his regards. I have watched your interactions. He truly values the relationship personally between the two of you and the relationship between our two countries," Pompeo said.

&nbsp

MOVE COULD COME FRIDAY

It remains unclear when Trump would activate the tariffs, if he decides to do so. Several industry lobbyists told Reuters they expected the move to come as early as Friday, with publication of a Federal Register notice, or it could be put off until next week.

If Washington adopts tariffs, Beijing is expected to hit back with its own duties on US&nbspimports, including soybeans, cars, chemicals and planes, according to a list it released in early April.

Under the 1974 trade law that Trump invoked to pursue a tariff investigation into China's intellectual property practices, he could delay the activation by 30 days. He can also delay the tariffs by another 180 days if the US&nbspTrade Representative's office finds negotiations with China are yielding progress.

"The president's trade team has recommended tariffs. If there are not tariffs, it will be because the president has decided that he's not ready to implement tariffs," a person familiar with the administration's deliberations told Reuters.

But that recommendation came prior to Trump's trip late last week to Canada for the G7 leaders' summit and to Singapore for talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to defuse a nuclear standoff on the Korean peninsula.

Trump returned to Washington early on Wednesday morning. In an interview aired on Wednesday, Trump told Fox News that he was "very strongly clamping down on trade" with China.

Asked how strong, Trump said: "Well, I think very strongly. I mean you'll see over the next couple of weeks. They understand what we are doing."

Trump did not specifically mention the tariffs and added that he had "a very good relationship with President Xi (Jinping) of China".

The administration's trade hawks, including U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and White House trade and manufacturing adviser Peter Navarro, have advocated a tougher approach to address U.S. allegations that China has misappropriated American intellectual property through joint venture requirements, state-backed acquisitions of U.S. technology firms and outright theft.

Amid the rising trade tension, China's Commerce Ministry spokesman Gao Feng said Chinese exporters have been front-loading their shipments due to changes in the international trade environment.

Trump is due to unveil revisions to his initial tariff list targeting $50 billion of Chinese goods on Friday.

China urged the United States on Thursday to make a "wise decision" on trade, saying it was ready to respond in case Washington chose confrontation, as US&nbspPresident Donald prepares to decide whether to activate tariffs on Chinese goods. Trump is due to unveil revisions to his initial tariff list targeting $50 billion of Chinese goods on Friday. People familiar with the revisions said the list would be slightly smaller than the original, with some goods deleted and others added, particularly in the technology sector. Another administration official said a draft document showed the new list would still be close to $50 billion, with about 1,300 product categories, but both the dollar amount and quantity of products were still subject to change. Speaking to reporters in Beijing, with US&nbspSecretary of State Mike Pompeo at his side, the Chinese government's top diplomat, State Councillor Wang Yi, said there were two choices when it came to the trade issue. "The first choice is cooperation and mutual benefit. The other choice is confrontation and mutual loss. China chooses the first," Wang said. "We hope the US&nbspside can also make the same wise choice. Of course, we have also made preparations to respond to the second kind of choice." The move toward activating US&nbsptariffs on Chinese goods follows negotiations between US&nbspand Chinese officials centred on increased purchases by Beijing of American farm and energy commodities and cutting the US&nbsptrade deficit with China. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross this month met Chinese officials in Beijing and brought back a Chinese proposal to buy around $70 billion worth of additional commodities and manufactured goods. But that offer has not been accepted by Trump, people familiar with the matter said. Wang said a basic consensus reached by the two countries during the recent talks was a pact to use "constructive means" to handle disagreements. "We hope the US&nbspside can meet China halfway and earnestly implement this important consensus, and promote the appropriate resolution of the relevant issue through a win-win and not lose-lose manner," he said. "In this process, we hope the US&nbspside does not unilaterally take any non-constructive actions, and does not create new obstacles for the next phase of consultations." Pompeo said the US&nbspdeficit with China was still too high, but that they had had good talks. "I stressed how important it is for President Trump to rectify that situation so that trade becomes more balanced, more reciprocal and more fair, with the opportunity to have American workers be treated fairly. We had good and constructive discussions." Pompeo struck a warm tone with Chinese President Xi Jinping, at a meeting later in the evening, including wishing him a happy birthday for Friday - eliciting a chuckle and a "thank you" from Xi. "President Trump asked me to send his regards. I have watched your interactions. He truly values the relationship personally between the two of you and the relationship between our two countries," Pompeo said. MOVE COULD COME FRIDAY It remains unclear when Trump would activate the tariffs, if he decides to do so. Several industry lobbyists told Reuters they expected the move to come as early as Friday, with publication of a Federal Register notice, or it could be put off until next week. If Washington adopts tariffs, Beijing is expected to hit back with its own duties on US&nbspimports, including soybeans, cars, chemicals and planes, according to a list it released in early April. Under the 1974 trade law that Trump invoked to pursue a tariff investigation into China's intellectual property practices, he could delay the activation by 30 days. He can also delay the tariffs by another 180 days if the US&nbspTrade Representative's office finds negotiations with China are yielding progress. "The president's trade team has recommended tariffs. If there are not tariffs, it will be because the president has decided that he's not ready to implement tariffs," a person familiar with the administration's deliberations told Reuters. But that recommendation came prior to Trump's trip late last week to Canada for the G7 leaders' summit and to Singapore for talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to defuse a nuclear standoff on the Korean peninsula. Trump returned to Washington early on Wednesday morning. In an interview aired on Wednesday, Trump told Fox News that he was "very strongly clamping down on trade" with China. Asked how strong, Trump said: "Well, I think very strongly. I mean you'll see over the next couple of weeks. They understand what we are doing." Trump did not specifically mention the tariffs and added that he had "a very good relationship with President Xi (Jinping) of China". The administration's trade hawks, including U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and White House trade and manufacturing adviser Peter Navarro, have advocated a tougher approach to address U.S. allegations that China has misappropriated American intellectual property through joint venture requirements, state-backed acquisitions of U.S. technology firms and outright theft. Amid the rising trade tension, China's Commerce Ministry spokesman Gao Feng said Chinese exporters have been front-loading their shipments due to changes in the international trade environment.

China urges US to make 'wise choice' ahead of tariffs decision

China&nbsp;on Tuesday&nbsp;praised the summit between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un as historic and called for "full denuclearisation" to resolve tensions on the Korean peninsula.

The fact that the two leaders "can sit together and have equal talks has important and positive meaning, and is creating a new history," Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told reporters.

"The crux of the peninsula nuclear issue is a security issue. The most important, difficult part of this security issue is for the United States and North Korea to sit down to find a way to resolution via equal talks," Wang said.

"Resolving the nuclear issue, on the one hand, of course, is denuclearisation, full denuclearisation. At the same time, there needs to be a peace mechanism for the peninsula, to resolve North Korea's reasonable security concerns."

Beijing is Pyongyang's sole major ally and main trading partner, but it has backed a slew of United Nations sanctions to punish the North over its nuclear and missile tests.

Despite tensions, the Cold War-era allies have sought to mend ties recently, and Kim borrowed an Air China plane to travel to the landmark summit in Singapore.

The fact that the two leaders "can sit together and have equal talks has important and positive meaning, and is creating a new history," Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told reporters

China on Tuesday praised the summit between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un as historic and called for "full denuclearisation" to resolve tensions on the Korean peninsula. The fact that the two leaders "can sit together and have equal talks has important and positive meaning, and is creating a new history," Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told reporters. "The crux of the peninsula nuclear issue is a security issue. The most important, difficult part of this security issue is for the United States and North Korea to sit down to find a way to resolution via equal talks," Wang said. "Resolving the nuclear issue, on the one hand, of course, is denuclearisation, full denuclearisation. At the same time, there needs to be a peace mechanism for the peninsula, to resolve North Korea's reasonable security concerns." Beijing is Pyongyang's sole major ally and main trading partner, but it has backed a slew of United Nations sanctions to punish the North over its nuclear and missile tests. Despite tensions, the Cold War-era allies have sought to mend ties recently, and Kim borrowed an Air China plane to travel to the landmark summit in Singapore.

China urges 'full denuclearisation' as Kim-Trump meet

China's state councillor Wang Yi met with the North's foreign minister Ri Yong Ho in Pyongyang where they discussed bilateral ties and issues regarding the Korean Peninsula, North Korean and Chinese state media reported on Thursday.

Chinese state television CCTV showed Wang meeting Ri and offering flowers at the Friendship Tower and Mansudae Grand Monument in Pyongyang.

North Korea's official news agency KCNA released still photographs of the activities, which could not be independently verified.

CCTV said Wang offered his congratulations for the successful summit between the leaders of the North and South during. Ri told Wang that North Korea is willing to keep close communications with China on realizing denuclearisation on the Korean peninsula, CCTV added.

China is North Korea's most important economic and diplomatic backer, despite Beijing's anger at Pyongyang's repeated nuclear and missile tests and support for strong United Nations sanctions against the North.

Chinese state television CCTV showed Wang meeting Ri and offering flowers at the Friendship Tower and Mansudae Grand Monument in Pyongyang

China's state councillor Wang Yi met with the North's foreign minister Ri Yong Ho in Pyongyang where they discussed bilateral ties and issues regarding the Korean Peninsula, North Korean and Chinese state media reported on Thursday. Chinese state television CCTV showed Wang meeting Ri and offering flowers at the Friendship Tower and Mansudae Grand Monument in Pyongyang. North Korea's official news agency KCNA released still photographs of the activities, which could not be independently verified. CCTV said Wang offered his congratulations for the successful summit between the leaders of the North and South during. Ri told Wang that North Korea is willing to keep close communications with China on realizing denuclearisation on the Korean peninsula, CCTV added. China is North Korea's most important economic and diplomatic backer, despite Beijing's anger at Pyongyang's repeated nuclear and missile tests and support for strong United Nations sanctions against the North.

China's senior diplomat meets with North Korea foreign minister

North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un told a visiting Chinese diplomat on Thursday that he is committed to denuclearisation, China's foreign ministry said, as diplomatic efforts to bring lasting peace to the Korean peninsula gather pace.

China is North Korea's most important economic and diplomatic backer, despite its anger at North Korea' repeated nuclear and missile tests, and its support for strong UN&nbsp;sanctions against the North.

However, China has also welcomed moves by North Korea to improve ties with South Korea and the United States.

China's top diplomat, State Councillor Wang Yi, is visiting North Korea following last week's historic meeting between South Korean President Moon Jae-in and the North's Kim Jong-Un, when both pledged to improve ties.

The North surprised the world several days before the summit by declaring it would dismantle its nuclear test site to "transparently guarantee" its dramatic commitment to stop all nuclear and missile tests.

Meeting in the North Korean capital, Pyongyang, Kim told Wang that recent positive changes on the peninsula were beneficial to a peaceful resolution, China's foreign ministry said in a statement.

"Kim Jong Un said achieving the denuclearisation of the peninsula is the firm position of the North Korean side," the ministry said.

Wang told Kim that North Korea had seized the day and made a decisive decision, bringing positive changes.

Last week's summit talks between the leaders of the two Koreans had brought about an opportunity for a political resolution, Wang added.

China supported an end to the state of war on the peninsula, North Korea's shift to economic development and the resolution of North Korea's legitimate security concerns during the denuclearisation process, he said.

"China is willing to maintain communication with North Korea on this and increase coordination."

The 1950-53 Korean War, which technically is still going on because a peace treaty has yet to be signed.

Wang also met North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho.

'POSITIVE ROLE'

In an earlier statement, Wang said China hoped dialogue between North Korea and the United States would be successful and that substantial progress would be made, referring to an upcoming meeting between Kim and US&nbsp;President Donald Trump.

"China is willing to strengthen communication with North Korea and continue to play a positive role in seeking a political solution to the Korean peninsula issue," Wang said.

South Korea's presidential official said high-level inter-Korean talks would be held in mid-May to work on implementing the agreement reached by Kim and Moon.

China had largely sat on the sidelines while the two Koreas improved ties, until Kim made a secretive trip to Beijing to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping in late March.

Beijing has been keen to show that it has an indispensable role to play in seeking a lasting solution, concerned that its interests may be ignored, especially as Pyongyang and Washington edge closer together.

The widely read Chinese state-run tabloid the Global Times said in an editorial any suggestion China was being marginalised "is a shallow attempt to manipulate public opinion".

China preferred quieter diplomacy, it said, pointing to the secrecy surrounding Kim's meeting with Xi.

"But Seoul, for its own political purposes, created much hype about the inter-Korean summit. U.S. President Donald Trump has started claiming credit for the Kim-Trump summit before it even starts," it said.

North Korean leader Kim Jon-Un told a visiting Chinese diplomat on Thursday that he is committed to denuclearisation, China's foreign ministry said

North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un told a visiting Chinese diplomat on Thursday that he is committed to denuclearisation, China's foreign ministry said, as diplomatic efforts to bring lasting peace to the Korean peninsula gather pace. China is North Korea's most important economic and diplomatic backer, despite its anger at North Korea' repeated nuclear and missile tests, and its support for strong UN sanctions against the North. However, China has also welcomed moves by North Korea to improve ties with South Korea and the United States. China's top diplomat, State Councillor Wang Yi, is visiting North Korea following last week's historic meeting between South Korean President Moon Jae-in and the North's Kim Jong-Un, when both pledged to improve ties. The North surprised the world several days before the summit by declaring it would dismantle its nuclear test site to "transparently guarantee" its dramatic commitment to stop all nuclear and missile tests. Meeting in the North Korean capital, Pyongyang, Kim told Wang that recent positive changes on the peninsula were beneficial to a peaceful resolution, China's foreign ministry said in a statement. "Kim Jong Un said achieving the denuclearisation of the peninsula is the firm position of the North Korean side," the ministry said. Wang told Kim that North Korea had seized the day and made a decisive decision, bringing positive changes. Last week's summit talks between the leaders of the two Koreans had brought about an opportunity for a political resolution, Wang added. China supported an end to the state of war on the peninsula, North Korea's shift to economic development and the resolution of North Korea's legitimate security concerns during the denuclearisation process, he said. "China is willing to maintain communication with North Korea on this and increase coordination." The 1950-53 Korean War, which technically is still going on because a peace treaty has yet to be signed. Wang also met North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho. 'POSITIVE ROLE' In an earlier statement, Wang said China hoped dialogue between North Korea and the United States would be successful and that substantial progress would be made, referring to an upcoming meeting between Kim and US President Donald Trump. "China is willing to strengthen communication with North Korea and continue to play a positive role in seeking a political solution to the Korean peninsula issue," Wang said. South Korea's presidential official said high-level inter-Korean talks would be held in mid-May to work on implementing the agreement reached by Kim and Moon. China had largely sat on the sidelines while the two Koreas improved ties, until Kim made a secretive trip to Beijing to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping in late March. Beijing has been keen to show that it has an indispensable role to play in seeking a lasting solution, concerned that its interests may be ignored, especially as Pyongyang and Washington edge closer together. The widely read Chinese state-run tabloid the Global Times said in an editorial any suggestion China was being marginalised "is a shallow attempt to manipulate public opinion". China preferred quieter diplomacy, it said, pointing to the secrecy surrounding Kim's meeting with Xi. "But Seoul, for its own political purposes, created much hype about the inter-Korean summit. U.S. President Donald Trump has started claiming credit for the Kim-Trump summit before it even starts," it said.

North Korea's Kim Jong-Un tells China he is committed to denuclearisation

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will have an informal summit talk on April 27-28 in Wuhan, China, said Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Modi will be visiting the central Chinese city at the invitation of President Xi, Wang said at a joint media event with visiting External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj after their talks.

''We will make sure that the informal summit between the two leaders is a complete success and a milestone in China-India relations,'' he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Informed sources that it will be an informal summit meeting between Xi and Modi during which both leaders will try to work out a new paradigm for the bilateral ties bogged down with a host of disputes and differences, PTI reported.

This will be the fourth visit of Modi to China after he came to power in 2014. He is again due to visit China to take part in the SCO summit to be held at Qingdao city on June 9-10.

The Modi-Xi summit meeting is taking place in the backdrop of series of high-level interactions between both the two countries starting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang's visit to India in December, the first after Dokalam standoff.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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We will make sure that the informal summit(between PM Modi and President Jinping on April 27-28) will be a complete success and a milestone in China-India relations: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi <a href="https://t.co/w3y3pTr6ML">pic.twitter.com/w3y3pTr6ML</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/988010750840066048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Addressing a joint press conference with Chinese counterpart, Sushma Swaraj said China has confirmed data sharing on Sutlej and Brahmaputra rivers in 2018.&nbsp;

''As it directly affects lives of people living there we welcome this. Also, Kailash Mansarovar Yatra will resume this year through Nathu La pass, Sushma Swaraj said.&nbsp;

India and China agreed to work together on issues like terrorism, climate change, sustainable development, global healthcare and several others issues, Swaraj said.&nbsp;

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Reinforcing the positive momentum in our relationship! EAM <a href="https://twitter.com/SushmaSwaraj?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SushmaSwaraj</a> warmly welcomed by Foreign Minister and State Councillor of China Wang Yi at the Diaoyutai State Guest House in Beijing ahead of their bilateral meeting. <a href="https://t.co/wooyNLkpIH">pic.twitter.com/wooyNLkpIH</a>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/987989719987318784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Swaraj arrived here on Saturday on a four-day visit to take part in the foreign ministers' meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).&nbsp;

This is the first meeting between the&nbsp;two after Wang was elevated as state councillor last month which makes him the top diplomat of the country in the Chinese hierarchy. He also continues to be foreign minister.

Swaraj congratulated Wang on being elevated as state councillor and appointed the special representative for the India-China boundary talks.

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Together we prosper! EAM <a href="https://twitter.com/SushmaSwaraj?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SushmaSwaraj</a> and State Councillor and Foreign Minister of China, Wang Yi discussed all aspects of our bilateral relationship to strengthen India-China multifaceted engagement. <a href="https://t.co/rALF4WFPYf">pic.twitter.com/rALF4WFPYf</a>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/988005550242676736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Their meeting is part of efforts by the two countries to step up the pace of high-level interactions to improve relations, official sources here told PTI before the meeting.

Following the Dokalam standoff last year both countries increased dialogue to scale down tensions and improve relations with talks at various levels.

Swaraj and Wang are meeting in the immediate backdrop of the recent meeting between National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and top official of the ruling Communist Party of China (CPC) Yang Jiechi in Shanghai.&nbsp;

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will have an informal summit talk on April 27-28 in Wuhan, China, said Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will have an informal summit talk on April 27-28 in Wuhan, China, said Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Prime Minister Modi will be visiting the central Chinese city at the invitation of President Xi, Wang said at a joint media event with visiting External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj after their talks. ''We will make sure that the informal summit between the two leaders is a complete success and a milestone in China-India relations,'' he added. Informed sources that it will be an informal summit meeting between Xi and Modi during which both leaders will try to work out a new paradigm for the bilateral ties bogged down with a host of disputes and differences, PTI reported. This will be the fourth visit of Modi to China after he came to power in 2014. He is again due to visit China to take part in the SCO summit to be held at Qingdao city on June 9-10. The Modi-Xi summit meeting is taking place in the backdrop of series of high-level interactions between both the two countries starting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang's visit to India in December, the first after Dokalam standoff. We will make sure that the informal summit(between PM Modi and President Jinping on April 27-28) will be a complete success and a milestone in China-India relations: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi pic.twitter.com/w3y3pTr6ML — ANI (@ANI) April 22, 2018 × Addressing a joint press conference with Chinese counterpart, Sushma Swaraj said China has confirmed data sharing on Sutlej and Brahmaputra rivers in 2018. ''As it directly affects lives of people living there we welcome this. Also, Kailash Mansarovar Yatra will resume this year through Nathu La pass, Sushma Swaraj said. India and China agreed to work together on issues like terrorism, climate change, sustainable development, global healthcare and several others issues, Swaraj said. Reinforcing the positive momentum in our relationship! EAM @SushmaSwaraj warmly welcomed by Foreign Minister and State Councillor of China Wang Yi at the Diaoyutai State Guest House in Beijing ahead of their bilateral meeting. pic.twitter.com/wooyNLkpIH — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) April 22, 2018 × Swaraj arrived here on Saturday on a four-day visit to take part in the foreign ministers' meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). This is the first meeting between the two after Wang was elevated as state councillor last month which makes him the top diplomat of the country in the Chinese hierarchy. He also continues to be foreign minister. Swaraj congratulated Wang on being elevated as state councillor and appointed the special representative for the India-China boundary talks. Together we prosper! EAM @SushmaSwaraj and State Councillor and Foreign Minister of China, Wang Yi discussed all aspects of our bilateral relationship to strengthen India-China multifaceted engagement. pic.twitter.com/rALF4WFPYf — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) April 22, 2018 × Their meeting is part of efforts by the two countries to step up the pace of high-level interactions to improve relations, official sources here told PTI before the meeting. Following the Dokalam standoff last year both countries increased dialogue to scale down tensions and improve relations with talks at various levels. Swaraj and Wang are meeting in the immediate backdrop of the recent meeting between National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and top official of the ruling Communist Party of China (CPC) Yang Jiechi in Shanghai.

PM Modi to visit China on Apr 27-28 for summit talks with Prez Xi Jinping

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj arrived here today on a four-day visit during which she will hold talks with her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi and take part in the foreign ministers' meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).

Swaraj is due to meet Wang tomorrow.

This is their first meeting after Wang was elevated as state councillor last month which makes him the top diplomat of the country in the Chinese hierarchy. He also continues to be foreign minister.

Their meeting is part of efforts by the two countries to step up the pace of high-level interactions to improve relations, official sources here told.

Following the Dokalam standoff last year both countries increased dialogue to scale down tensions and improve relations with talks at various levels.

Swaraj and Wang are meeting in the immediate backdrop of the recent meeting between National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and top official of the ruling Communist Party of China (CPC) Yang Jiechi in Shanghai.

Both sides also held the 11th Joint Economic Group meeting and the fifth Strategic Economic Dialogue (SED).

Besides meetings between officials from the two foreign ministries, both sides also held working mechanism meetings on border affairs and cross border rivers as well disarmament and non-proliferation dialogue in which India's entry into NSG was discussed.

Swaraj will take part in the foreign ministers' meeting of the eight-member SCO on April 24. She along with other foreign ministers of the group would call on Chinese President Xi Jinping on April 23, and will leave for Mongolia the next day.

This is the first meeting of the group after India and Pakistan were admitted into the SCO last year.

The SCO, in which China and Russia play an influential role, specialises in regional security and counter terrorism and related issues.

The organisation is comprised of China, Russia, India, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan.

A host of issues, including regional security and terrorism, would be discussed at the meeting which is a preparatory meet ahead of the SCO summit to be held in the Chinese city of Qingdao in June with Prime Minister Narendra Modi also scheduled to take part in it.

Also, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will arrive here on April 23 to take part in the SCO defence ministers' meeting to be held the next day. Swaraj and Sitharaman would be in Beijing around the same time to attend their respective meetings.

Sitharaman is also expected to meet her Chinese counterpart Lt Gen Wei Fenghe.

This is their first meeting after Wang was elevated as state councillor last month which makes him the top diplomat of the country in the Chinese hierarchy. He also continues to be foreign minister.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj arrived here today on a four-day visit during which she will hold talks with her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi and take part in the foreign ministers' meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). Swaraj is due to meet Wang tomorrow. This is their first meeting after Wang was elevated as state councillor last month which makes him the top diplomat of the country in the Chinese hierarchy. He also continues to be foreign minister. Their meeting is part of efforts by the two countries to step up the pace of high-level interactions to improve relations, official sources here told. Following the Dokalam standoff last year both countries increased dialogue to scale down tensions and improve relations with talks at various levels. Swaraj and Wang are meeting in the immediate backdrop of the recent meeting between National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and top official of the ruling Communist Party of China (CPC) Yang Jiechi in Shanghai. Both sides also held the 11th Joint Economic Group meeting and the fifth Strategic Economic Dialogue (SED). Besides meetings between officials from the two foreign ministries, both sides also held working mechanism meetings on border affairs and cross border rivers as well disarmament and non-proliferation dialogue in which India's entry into NSG was discussed. Swaraj will take part in the foreign ministers' meeting of the eight-member SCO on April 24. She along with other foreign ministers of the group would call on Chinese President Xi Jinping on April 23, and will leave for Mongolia the next day. This is the first meeting of the group after India and Pakistan were admitted into the SCO last year. The SCO, in which China and Russia play an influential role, specialises in regional security and counter terrorism and related issues. The organisation is comprised of China, Russia, India, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan. A host of issues, including regional security and terrorism, would be discussed at the meeting which is a preparatory meet ahead of the SCO summit to be held in the Chinese city of Qingdao in June with Prime Minister Narendra Modi also scheduled to take part in it. Also, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will arrive here on April 23 to take part in the SCO defence ministers' meeting to be held the next day. Swaraj and Sitharaman would be in Beijing around the same time to attend their respective meetings. Sitharaman is also expected to meet her Chinese counterpart Lt Gen Wei Fenghe.

Sushma Swaraj arrives in Beijing for talks with Chinese counterpart Wang Yi, SCO meet

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will visit China later this week to participate in the Foreign Ministers meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) during which she will also hold talks with her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi.&nbsp;

Swaraj, who will be arriving in China on April 21, is expected to meet Wang on April 22. She is scheduled to take part in the SCO Foreign Ministers meeting on April 24, official sources here said.

This will be their first meeting after Wang has been elevated last month to be the State Councillor, which makes him the top diplomat in the Chinese hierarchy. He will hold the dual posts of the State Councillor and Foreign Minister.&nbsp;

After her China visit, she will travel to Magnolia.&nbsp;

Sushma Swaraj and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman are visiting China virtually around the same time. Sitharaman is due to take part in the SCO Defence Ministers meeting on April 24.&nbsp;

The SCO meetings are a prelude to the June summit of the eight-member grouping in which India and Pakistan have become new members.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to take part in the SCO summit to be held in the Chinese city of Qingdao in June.&nbsp;

Foreign and Defence Ministers of Pakistan are also expected to attend the April 24 meetings.&nbsp;

The SCO comprises of China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India and Pakistan.&nbsp;

Visits by Swaraj and Sitharaman are taking place as India and China have stepped up high-level exchanges to defuse tensions following last year's Doklam standoff. 
&nbsp; 
On April 13, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval met Yang Jiechi, Director of China's Foreign Affairs Commission and member of the ruling Communist Party of China, in Shanghai during which the two sides held in-depth talks on improving the relations. 
&nbsp; 
Both sides also held the 11th Joint Economic Group meeting and the fifth Strategic Economic Dialogue (SED). India and China also held working mechanism meeting on border affairs and cross border rivers.&nbsp; 
 
Commenting on the meetings, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying told the media here yesterday that bilateral ties have seen sound momentum and all round cooperation this year.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The external affairs minister will participate in the Foreign Ministers meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) during which she will also hold talks with her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will visit China later this week to participate in the Foreign Ministers meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) during which she will also hold talks with her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi. Swaraj, who will be arriving in China on April 21, is expected to meet Wang on April 22. She is scheduled to take part in the SCO Foreign Ministers meeting on April 24, official sources here said. This will be their first meeting after Wang has been elevated last month to be the State Councillor, which makes him the top diplomat in the Chinese hierarchy. He will hold the dual posts of the State Councillor and Foreign Minister. After her China visit, she will travel to Magnolia. Sushma Swaraj and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman are visiting China virtually around the same time. Sitharaman is due to take part in the SCO Defence Ministers meeting on April 24. The SCO meetings are a prelude to the June summit of the eight-member grouping in which India and Pakistan have become new members. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to take part in the SCO summit to be held in the Chinese city of Qingdao in June. Foreign and Defence Ministers of Pakistan are also expected to attend the April 24 meetings. The SCO comprises of China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India and Pakistan. Visits by Swaraj and Sitharaman are taking place as India and China have stepped up high-level exchanges to defuse tensions following last year's Doklam standoff. On April 13, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval met Yang Jiechi, Director of China's Foreign Affairs Commission and member of the ruling Communist Party of China, in Shanghai during which the two sides held in-depth talks on improving the relations. Both sides also held the 11th Joint Economic Group meeting and the fifth Strategic Economic Dialogue (SED). India and China also held working mechanism meeting on border affairs and cross border rivers. Commenting on the meetings, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying told the media here yesterday that bilateral ties have seen sound momentum and all round cooperation this year.

Sushma Swaraj to visit China this week, will hold talks with counterpart

China's foreign minister on Thursday called on the international community to oppose the United States' recent trade moves, saying they threatened global economic growth.

Addressing a news conference in Moscow, Wang Yi condemned a move by President Donald Trump's administration to slap tariffs on a list of Chinese goods and said the world should stand up to Washington over what he called its unilateral moves.

"The world community must together resist these sorts of unilateral actions and breaking of the rules, must jointly push for global economic growth and together help bring some common sense to those who think they can do anything they like," he said.

If the United States believes it could benefit from protectionism it is making a mistake, he said after meeting with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov.

"If the US is using the sanctions stick, then they've got the wrong idea," Wang Yi said.

An escalating confrontation between Washington and Beijing has been inching closer to an all-out trade war since China on Wednesday threatened retaliation against key US exports over looming US tariffs on more than 1,000 Chinese goods.

"Our counter-measures were necessary and sufficient," Wang Yi said, adding they were "a legitimate defence of our interests and our rights".

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi called on the international community to oppose the United States' recent trade moves, saying they threatened global economic growth

China's foreign minister on Thursday called on the international community to oppose the United States' recent trade moves, saying they threatened global economic growth. Addressing a news conference in Moscow, Wang Yi condemned a move by President Donald Trump's administration to slap tariffs on a list of Chinese goods and said the world should stand up to Washington over what he called its unilateral moves. "The world community must together resist these sorts of unilateral actions and breaking of the rules, must jointly push for global economic growth and together help bring some common sense to those who think they can do anything they like," he said. If the United States believes it could benefit from protectionism it is making a mistake, he said after meeting with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov. "If the US is using the sanctions stick, then they've got the wrong idea," Wang Yi said. An escalating confrontation between Washington and Beijing has been inching closer to an all-out trade war since China on Wednesday threatened retaliation against key US exports over looming US tariffs on more than 1,000 Chinese goods. "Our counter-measures were necessary and sufficient," Wang Yi said, adding they were "a legitimate defence of our interests and our rights".

China calls on world to stand up to US over trade

China and India should shed their mental inhibitions and manage differences to enhance bilateral ties, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Thursday and insisted that even the Himalayas cannot stop the two countries from friendly exchanges if there is political trust.

Wang&#39;s remarks on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/relations-between-india-and-china-to-remain-tenseus-intelligence-chief-32776">Sino-India relations</a> came during his annual press conference on the sidelines of the ongoing parliamentary session.

Asked how China views relations with India this year after turbulence in ties in 2017 due to a number of issues including the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-bilateral-trade-hits-historic-high-of-8444-billion-in-2017-34998">Doklam stand-off</a>, Wang said, &quot;Despite some tests and difficulties, the China-India relationship continues to grow.&quot;

Bilateral ties were affected by a number of issues last year, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, China blocking efforts at the UN to list Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist as well as India&#39;s entry into the Nuclear Suppliers Group.

Troops of India and China were locked in a 73-day-long stand-off in Doklam last year. The stand-off ended on August 28, 2017, after the Chinese military stopped road building close to the strategic Chicken Neck corridor in an area claimed by Bhutan.

&quot;China is upholding its rights and legitimate interests and taking care to preserve the relationship with India,&quot; he said.

&quot;Chinese and Indian leaders have developed a strategic vision for the future of our relations. The Chinese dragon and Indian elephant must not fight each other but dance with each other,&quot; he said.

&quot;If China and India are united, one plus one will become eleven instead of two,&quot; he said.

Wang said the international situation is experiencing its biggest change in a century and China and India must do everything to emphasise this and support each other and avoid mutual suspicion and attrition.

He said mutual trust is the most precious commodity in the China-India relations.

&quot;With political trust, not even the Himalayas can stop us from friendly exchanges. Without it, not even level land can bring us together,&quot; he said.

&quot;A shared understanding far outstrip our differences. Our common interests far outweigh our frictions. China is willing and ready to inherit and take forward our traditional friendship and be a friend and partner of Indian people.

&quot;I hope the two sides will be free from mental inhibitions and meet each other halfway. Let us replace suspicion with trust, manage differences with dialogue and build a future with cooperation,&quot; he said.

Wang reacted strongly to a question whether the Indo-Pacific strategy being furthered by India, the US, Japan and Australia will affect China&#39;s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

He said there was &quot;no shortage of headline grabbing ideas&quot; but they were &quot;like the foam on the sea&quot; that &quot;gets attention but will soon dissipate&quot;.

Contrary to claims made by some academics and media outlets that the strategy is aimed at containing China, the four countries have made it clear that it targets no one, Wang said.

&quot;I hope they mean what they say,&quot; he said.

&quot;Let us not forget the BRI has received the support of over 100 countries. Nowadays stroking a new Cold War is out of sync with the times and inciting confrontation will find no market,&quot; he said.

Touted as Chinese President Xi Jinping&#39;s ambitious project, the BRI focuses on improving connectivity and cooperation among Asian countries, Africa, China and Europe.

The BRI also includes the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) which India opposed as it goes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Wang said the international situation is experiencing its biggest change in a century and China and India must do everything to emphasise this and support each other.

China and India should shed their mental inhibitions and manage differences to enhance bilateral ties, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Thursday and insisted that even the Himalayas cannot stop the two countries from friendly exchanges if there is political trust. Wang's remarks on Sino-India relations came during his annual press conference on the sidelines of the ongoing parliamentary session. Asked how China views relations with India this year after turbulence in ties in 2017 due to a number of issues including the Doklam stand-off, Wang said, "Despite some tests and difficulties, the China-India relationship continues to grow." Bilateral ties were affected by a number of issues last year, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, China blocking efforts at the UN to list Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist as well as India's entry into the Nuclear Suppliers Group. Troops of India and China were locked in a 73-day-long stand-off in Doklam last year. The stand-off ended on August 28, 2017, after the Chinese military stopped road building close to the strategic Chicken Neck corridor in an area claimed by Bhutan. "China is upholding its rights and legitimate interests and taking care to preserve the relationship with India," he said. "Chinese and Indian leaders have developed a strategic vision for the future of our relations. The Chinese dragon and Indian elephant must not fight each other but dance with each other," he said. "If China and India are united, one plus one will become eleven instead of two," he said. Wang said the international situation is experiencing its biggest change in a century and China and India must do everything to emphasise this and support each other and avoid mutual suspicion and attrition. He said mutual trust is the most precious commodity in the China-India relations. "With political trust, not even the Himalayas can stop us from friendly exchanges. Without it, not even level land can bring us together," he said. "A shared understanding far outstrip our differences. Our common interests far outweigh our frictions. China is willing and ready to inherit and take forward our traditional friendship and be a friend and partner of Indian people. "I hope the two sides will be free from mental inhibitions and meet each other halfway. Let us replace suspicion with trust, manage differences with dialogue and build a future with cooperation," he said. Wang reacted strongly to a question whether the Indo-Pacific strategy being furthered by India, the US, Japan and Australia will affect China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). He said there was "no shortage of headline grabbing ideas" but they were "like the foam on the sea" that "gets attention but will soon dissipate". Contrary to claims made by some academics and media outlets that the strategy is aimed at containing China, the four countries have made it clear that it targets no one, Wang said. "I hope they mean what they say," he said. "Let us not forget the BRI has received the support of over 100 countries. Nowadays stroking a new Cold War is out of sync with the times and inciting confrontation will find no market," he said. Touted as Chinese President Xi Jinping's ambitious project, the BRI focuses on improving connectivity and cooperation among Asian countries, Africa, China and Europe. The BRI also includes the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) which India opposed as it goes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Even Himalayas can't stop China, India if there is political trust: Chinese foreign minister

China`s resolve to protect peace and stability in the South China Sea is unshakeable, Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Thursday.

Speaking on the sidelines of an annual meeting of China`s parliament, Wang said that some outside forces were trying to muddy the waters in the disputed region. 
&nbsp; 
China has repeatedly accused countries outside the region - generally a reference to the United States and Japan - of trying to provoke trouble in the South China Sea while China and its neighbours are trying to resolve the matter through diplomacy.

This statement was given by China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi

China`s resolve to protect peace and stability in the South China Sea is unshakeable, Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Thursday. Speaking on the sidelines of an annual meeting of China`s parliament, Wang said that some outside forces were trying to muddy the waters in the disputed region. China has repeatedly accused countries outside the region - generally a reference to the United States and Japan - of trying to provoke trouble in the South China Sea while China and its neighbours are trying to resolve the matter through diplomacy.

China says resolve to protect peace, stability in South China Sea unshakeable

A trade war with the US will benefit no one, China warned on Thursday, as it prepares for an &#39;appropriate and necessary response&#39; to US&nbsp;if President Donald Trump fires the first shots.

&quot;Choosing a trade war is surely the wrong prescription, in the end, you will only hurt others and yourself,&quot; news agency AFP quoted Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi as saying during a press conference, adding that &quot;China will certainly make an appropriate and necessary response.&quot;

The Trump administration is expected to formally introduce previously announced tariffs on steel and aluminium imports on Thursday in the US.

US imports from China of these two goods make up a small proportion of its total imports from the world&#39;s second-largest economy.&nbsp;But the tariffs may be the first foray into an American trade war with Beijing.

In coming weeks, the Trump administration is expected to issue a report on intellectual property theft which may hammer China and possibly incite further tariffs on a wide range of Chinese imports, reported AFP.

Trump brought up the forthcoming moves on Wednesday, saying on Twitter that the US had asked China to develop a plan to reduce the deficit by one billion dollars.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
China has been asked to develop a plan for the year of a One Billion Dollar reduction in their massive Trade Deficit with the United States. Our relationship with China has been a very good one, and we look forward to seeing what ideas they come back with. We must act soon!
&mdash; Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/971402791930552322?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The amount is a drop in the bucket compared with record $375.2 billion trade deficit with China the US racked up last year.

&quot;The U.S. is acting swiftly on Intellectual Property theft. We cannot allow this to happen as it has for many years!&quot; the president also tweeted on Wednesday.

(With AFP inputs)&nbsp;

The Trump administration is expected to formally introduce previously announced tariffs on steel and aluminium imports on Thursday in the US.

A trade war with the US will benefit no one, China warned on Thursday, as it prepares for an 'appropriate and necessary response' to US if President Donald Trump fires the first shots. "Choosing a trade war is surely the wrong prescription, in the end, you will only hurt others and yourself," news agency AFP quoted Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi as saying during a press conference, adding that "China will certainly make an appropriate and necessary response." The Trump administration is expected to formally introduce previously announced tariffs on steel and aluminium imports on Thursday in the US. US imports from China of these two goods make up a small proportion of its total imports from the world's second-largest economy. But the tariffs may be the first foray into an American trade war with Beijing. In coming weeks, the Trump administration is expected to issue a report on intellectual property theft which may hammer China and possibly incite further tariffs on a wide range of Chinese imports, reported AFP. Trump brought up the forthcoming moves on Wednesday, saying on Twitter that the US had asked China to develop a plan to reduce the deficit by one billion dollars. China has been asked to develop a plan for the year of a One Billion Dollar reduction in their massive Trade Deficit with the United States. Our relationship with China has been a very good one, and we look forward to seeing what ideas they come back with. We must act soon! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 7, 2018 × The amount is a drop in the bucket compared with record $375.2 billion trade deficit with China the US racked up last year. "The U.S. is acting swiftly on Intellectual Property theft. We cannot allow this to happen as it has for many years!" the president also tweeted on Wednesday. (With AFP inputs)

Trade war with US will benefit no one, warns China as it readies for 'appropriate response'

China&#39;s foreign minister sought Thursday to downplay concerns about Beijing&#39;s global ambitions, while also hinting at consequences for countries that don&#39;t fall in line on issues like Taiwan.

Pledging that China had no desire to &quot;replace America&quot; on the global stage, Wang Yi said the Asian nation&#39;s path &quot;is totally different than the one that has already been taken by traditional major powers&quot;.

&quot;The more China develops, the more it can contribute to the world,&quot; Wang said in a wide-ranging press conference.

Wang spoke as 3,000 members of China&#39;s mostly ceremonial national legislature have gathered for their annual meeting in Beijing, where they are set to grant President Xi Jinping a nearly limitless mandate to realise his vision of a resurgent China.

Xi&#39;s ambitions are not limited to home: he has clearly articulated his vision of putting China at the centre of world affairs, a position reflecting its Chinese name: &quot;the Middle Kingdom.&quot;

The departure from the country&#39;s long-held stance of keeping a low profile had raised fears abroad of spreading Chinese influence.

On Thursday, Wang tried to strike a balance between reassurance and assertiveness, as Beijing deals with pressure from countries like the US to change its behaviour.

Here are some of the main takeaways:

Us-China Relations

As US president Donald Trump threatens a trade war with China, Wang warned that Beijing is ready to take an &quot;appropriate and necessary response&quot;.

&quot;China&#39;s development and rejuvenation can&#39;t be stopped,&quot; he said.

&quot;Some Americans think that therefore China wants to replace the US&#39;s international role, but that is a fundamental strategic misjudgement.&quot;

China and the US &quot;don&#39;t need to be rivals, they should be partners&quot;.

South China Sea

Nevertheless, China will not give an inch in the South China Sea, where it has built an archipelago of artificial islands hosting military facilities that the US and other nations say threaten freedom of navigation through the strategically vital waterway.

Beijing&#39;s &quot;resolve to protect the peace and the stability of the South China Sea cannot be shaken&quot;, Wang said about the region, where it has overlapping territorial claims with the Philippines, Vietnam, Taiwan, Malaysia and Brunei.

The problems in the region are due to &quot;foreign forces&quot; which &quot;have sent fully armed warships and fighters to the South China Sea to flaunt their military might&quot;, he said, referring to operations by the US, Australia and Britain to assert their right to sail through the region.

Taiwan

Although China does not recognise the self-ruled island as an independent nation, Wang took questions about Beijing&#39;s relationship with Taipei, warning that the Taiwanese government must come around to China&#39;s way of thinking if it hopes to enjoy &quot;peaceful development&quot;.

The relationship between Beijing and Taipei has soured since the election of President Tsai Ying-wen, who has refused to acknowledge the so-called &quot;1992 consensus&quot;, which agrees that there is only one China without specifying whether Beijing or Taipei is its rightful representative.

&quot;The person who locked the door should open it,&quot; Wang said.

Only by taking the &quot;correct path&quot; of recognising the consensus can &quot;cross-strait relations restart building a promising prospect for peaceful development&quot;.

Japan

Japanese Prime Minister Abe is expected to make a visit to China after years of tense relations set off by a territorial dispute and festering disagreements over the legacy of the Second World War.

After mocking a Japanese reporter&#39;s Chinese language skills, Wang said that China &quot;wants the Japanese side to speak credibly in its politics, to behave properly in its actions&quot;.

North Korea

Wang cautiously welcomed the apparent breakthrough over the North Korea nuclear issue as an &quot;important step in the right direction&quot;.

He urged the US and North Korea to hold talks as soon as possible after Seoul said that Pyongyang was ready to discuss denuclearisation with Washington in return for security guarantees.

&quot;Now is the crucial moment to test the sincerity of the parties to solve the nuclear issue,&quot; he said.

Chinese minister Wang Yi spoke as 3,000 members of China's mostly ceremonial national legislature have gathered for their annual meeting in Beijing

China's foreign minister sought Thursday to downplay concerns about Beijing's global ambitions, while also hinting at consequences for countries that don't fall in line on issues like Taiwan. Pledging that China had no desire to "replace America" on the global stage, Wang Yi said the Asian nation's path "is totally different than the one that has already been taken by traditional major powers". "The more China develops, the more it can contribute to the world," Wang said in a wide-ranging press conference. Wang spoke as 3,000 members of China's mostly ceremonial national legislature have gathered for their annual meeting in Beijing, where they are set to grant President Xi Jinping a nearly limitless mandate to realise his vision of a resurgent China. Xi's ambitions are not limited to home: he has clearly articulated his vision of putting China at the centre of world affairs, a position reflecting its Chinese name: "the Middle Kingdom." The departure from the country's long-held stance of keeping a low profile had raised fears abroad of spreading Chinese influence. On Thursday, Wang tried to strike a balance between reassurance and assertiveness, as Beijing deals with pressure from countries like the US to change its behaviour. Here are some of the main takeaways: Us-China Relations As US president Donald Trump threatens a trade war with China, Wang warned that Beijing is ready to take an "appropriate and necessary response". "China's development and rejuvenation can't be stopped," he said. "Some Americans think that therefore China wants to replace the US's international role, but that is a fundamental strategic misjudgement." China and the US "don't need to be rivals, they should be partners". South China Sea Nevertheless, China will not give an inch in the South China Sea, where it has built an archipelago of artificial islands hosting military facilities that the US and other nations say threaten freedom of navigation through the strategically vital waterway. Beijing's "resolve to protect the peace and the stability of the South China Sea cannot be shaken", Wang said about the region, where it has overlapping territorial claims with the Philippines, Vietnam, Taiwan, Malaysia and Brunei. The problems in the region are due to "foreign forces" which "have sent fully armed warships and fighters to the South China Sea to flaunt their military might", he said, referring to operations by the US, Australia and Britain to assert their right to sail through the region. Taiwan Although China does not recognise the self-ruled island as an independent nation, Wang took questions about Beijing's relationship with Taipei, warning that the Taiwanese government must come around to China's way of thinking if it hopes to enjoy "peaceful development". The relationship between Beijing and Taipei has soured since the election of President Tsai Ying-wen, who has refused to acknowledge the so-called "1992 consensus", which agrees that there is only one China without specifying whether Beijing or Taipei is its rightful representative. "The person who locked the door should open it," Wang said. Only by taking the "correct path" of recognising the consensus can "cross-strait relations restart building a promising prospect for peaceful development". Japan Japanese Prime Minister Abe is expected to make a visit to China after years of tense relations set off by a territorial dispute and festering disagreements over the legacy of the Second World War. After mocking a Japanese reporter's Chinese language skills, Wang said that China "wants the Japanese side to speak credibly in its politics, to behave properly in its actions". North Korea Wang cautiously welcomed the apparent breakthrough over the North Korea nuclear issue as an "important step in the right direction". He urged the US and North Korea to hold talks as soon as possible after Seoul said that Pyongyang was ready to discuss denuclearisation with Washington in return for security guarantees. "Now is the crucial moment to test the sincerity of the parties to solve the nuclear issue," he said.

Not trying to 'replace America', says Chinese foreign minister

China always values the good neighbourliness and friendship with India, but it is also firm on upholding its &quot;sovereign rights&quot;, interests and territorial integrity, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said.

Beijing handled the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-downplays-disengagement-of-troops-from-doklam-warns-india-to-draw-lesson-19600" target="_blank">Dokalam standoff </a>with &quot;restraint&quot;, showing the &quot;emphasis&quot; it places on ties with New Delhi, he said.

Touching on China&#39;s relations with major countries and its diplomatic initiatives last year, Yi, in a lengthy article in the Chinese International Studies journal, dwelt about Sino-India ties, stating that Beijing&#39;s diplomatic engagement with New Delhi resulted in India withdrawing its troops and equipment from Dokalam.

The journal is published by China Institute of International Studies, a think-tank attached to the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

The 73-day standoff at Dokalam over which Bhutan also has counterclaims began in June last year when Indian troops objected to Chinese army building a road close to India&#39;s Chicken-Neck Corridor, a narrow corridor connecting northeastern states.

The standoff ended on August 28 after Chinese troops agreed to stop building the road following which both the sides agreed on the &quot;expeditious disengagement&quot; of personnel at Dokalam, according to the External Affairs Ministry.

Yi said China always values the good neighbourliness and friendship with India as &quot;we are each other&#39;s big neighbours and ancient civilisations&quot;.

In the meantime, China is also firm in upholding its sovereign rights and interests and territorial integrity, he said.

&quot;We handled the Indian border troops trespass into China&#39;s Dong Long (Dokalam) area in our national interest, on just grounds and with restraint. Through diplomatic means, we engaged with the Indian side and it withdrew its equipment and personnel.

&quot;This demonstrates not only the value and emphasis we put on relations with India but also our sincerity and sense of responsibility in maintaining regional peace and stability,&quot; the foreign minister said.

&quot;We believe as we continue to engage in in-depth strategic communication and promptly dispel strategic misgivings, the strategic value of China-India cooperation will speak for itself and there will be a prospect of &#39;the Dragon and Elephant dancing together&#39; and 1+1=11 effect as expected by the leaders,&quot; Yi said.

On Chinese diplomacy in general, he said China will continue to break new ground in pursuing major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics in the new era.

&quot;We will take a longer and broader perspective, and be even more open-minded and resourceful in our diplomacy. We will give more consideration to the overall interests of the world and humanity, and work in a proactive manner,&quot; he said.

China will firmly uphold the existing international system with the UN at the core, and protect and expand the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries, he said.

&quot;We will continue to act as a responsible major country to contribute to world peace, promote global development, and uphold the international order,&quot; Yi added.

Chinese Foreign Minister dwelt about Sino-India ties, stating that Beijing's diplomatic engagement with New Delhi resulted in India withdrawing its troops and equipment from Dokalam.

China always values the good neighbourliness and friendship with India, but it is also firm on upholding its "sovereign rights", interests and territorial integrity, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said. Beijing handled the Dokalam standoff with "restraint", showing the "emphasis" it places on ties with New Delhi, he said. Touching on China's relations with major countries and its diplomatic initiatives last year, Yi, in a lengthy article in the Chinese International Studies journal, dwelt about Sino-India ties, stating that Beijing's diplomatic engagement with New Delhi resulted in India withdrawing its troops and equipment from Dokalam. The journal is published by China Institute of International Studies, a think-tank attached to the Chinese Foreign Ministry. The 73-day standoff at Dokalam over which Bhutan also has counterclaims began in June last year when Indian troops objected to Chinese army building a road close to India's Chicken-Neck Corridor, a narrow corridor connecting northeastern states. The standoff ended on August 28 after Chinese troops agreed to stop building the road following which both the sides agreed on the "expeditious disengagement" of personnel at Dokalam, according to the External Affairs Ministry. Yi said China always values the good neighbourliness and friendship with India as "we are each other's big neighbours and ancient civilisations". In the meantime, China is also firm in upholding its sovereign rights and interests and territorial integrity, he said. "We handled the Indian border troops trespass into China's Dong Long (Dokalam) area in our national interest, on just grounds and with restraint. Through diplomatic means, we engaged with the Indian side and it withdrew its equipment and personnel. "This demonstrates not only the value and emphasis we put on relations with India but also our sincerity and sense of responsibility in maintaining regional peace and stability," the foreign minister said. "We believe as we continue to engage in in-depth strategic communication and promptly dispel strategic misgivings, the strategic value of China-India cooperation will speak for itself and there will be a prospect of 'the Dragon and Elephant dancing together' and 1+1=11 effect as expected by the leaders," Yi said. On Chinese diplomacy in general, he said China will continue to break new ground in pursuing major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics in the new era. "We will take a longer and broader perspective, and be even more open-minded and resourceful in our diplomacy. We will give more consideration to the overall interests of the world and humanity, and work in a proactive manner," he said. China will firmly uphold the existing international system with the UN at the core, and protect and expand the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries, he said. "We will continue to act as a responsible major country to contribute to world peace, promote global development, and uphold the international order," Yi added.

China values India ties but firm on 'sovereign rights': Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and his Chinese counterpart state councillor Yang Jiechi will hold the next round of formal negotiations on the boundary issue later today.

This comes almost four months after the 73-day-long military stand-off at the Doklam plateau in the tri-junction region.

In the 20th round of special representatives talks since the establishment of the Special Representatives (SR) mechanism in 2003, Doval and Jiechi are expected to discuss ways to maintain peace and tranquillity along the 4,000-km-long border.

The two representatives will also discuss the Doklam stand-off.

Last Doval and Jiechi had met during the BRICS summit in Xiamen in September.

Reportedly, the decision to hold talks in the connection was taken at a meeting held last week between External Affairs Minister (EAM) Sushma Swaraj and her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the sidelines of the Russia-India-China (RIC) conference here.

However, the announcement of the meeting was made by MEA on Wednesday.

&quot;At the invitation of Ajit Doval, National Security Adviser and the Special Representative of India on the Boundary Question, Yang Jiechi, State Councillor and Member of the Politburo of Communist Party of China&#39;s Central Committee and Special Representative of China on the Boundary Question, will visit India on December 22 to hold the 20th meeting of special representatives,&quot; MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said during a media briefing.

Kumar averred that the discussions will be focused on the boundary issue, adding &quot;we, of course, attach lot of importance to this dialogue mechanism.&quot;

On Tuesday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying while addressing a media briefing said that the Doklam stand-off had posed a &quot;major test&quot; for bilateral ties.

Hua also stressed that lessons should be learnt from the conflict to circumvent similar situation in the future.

&quot;This special representative meeting is not only a high-level channel for the border issue discussion but also the platform for strategic communication,&quot; she said.

She further said that the meeting was not only a high-level channel for the border issue discussion, but also the platform for strategic communication.

&quot;In 2017, China-India relations have maintained a good momentum generally but the Doklam incident posed a major test for the two countries. We should learn lessons from this incident to avoid any further conflict of this kind in the future,&quot; she added.

The last round of SRs meeting was held in Beijing in April 2016.

The Doklam standoff began on June 16 over People&#39;s Liberation Army&#39;s plans to build a road in area claimed by Bhutan.

The conflict came to an end on August 28 after the tw0 sides agreed to withdraw their respective troops from the Doklam plateau and the Chinese troops stopped building a key road close to India&#39;s corridor.&nbsp;

This comes almost four months after the 73-day-long military stand-off at the Doklam plateau in the tri-junction region

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and his Chinese counterpart state councillor Yang Jiechi will hold the next round of formal negotiations on the boundary issue later today. This comes almost four months after the 73-day-long military stand-off at the Doklam plateau in the tri-junction region. In the 20th round of special representatives talks since the establishment of the Special Representatives (SR) mechanism in 2003, Doval and Jiechi are expected to discuss ways to maintain peace and tranquillity along the 4,000-km-long border. The two representatives will also discuss the Doklam stand-off. Last Doval and Jiechi had met during the BRICS summit in Xiamen in September. Reportedly, the decision to hold talks in the connection was taken at a meeting held last week between External Affairs Minister (EAM) Sushma Swaraj and her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the sidelines of the Russia-India-China (RIC) conference here. However, the announcement of the meeting was made by MEA on Wednesday. "At the invitation of Ajit Doval, National Security Adviser and the Special Representative of India on the Boundary Question, Yang Jiechi, State Councillor and Member of the Politburo of Communist Party of China's Central Committee and Special Representative of China on the Boundary Question, will visit India on December 22 to hold the 20th meeting of special representatives," MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said during a media briefing. Kumar averred that the discussions will be focused on the boundary issue, adding "we, of course, attach lot of importance to this dialogue mechanism." On Tuesday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying while addressing a media briefing said that the Doklam stand-off had posed a "major test" for bilateral ties. Hua also stressed that lessons should be learnt from the conflict to circumvent similar situation in the future. "This special representative meeting is not only a high-level channel for the border issue discussion but also the platform for strategic communication," she said. She further said that the meeting was not only a high-level channel for the border issue discussion, but also the platform for strategic communication. "In 2017, China-India relations have maintained a good momentum generally but the Doklam incident posed a major test for the two countries. We should learn lessons from this incident to avoid any further conflict of this kind in the future," she added. The last round of SRs meeting was held in Beijing in April 2016. The Doklam standoff began on June 16 over People's Liberation Army's plans to build a road in area claimed by Bhutan. The conflict came to an end on August 28 after the tw0 sides agreed to withdraw their respective troops from the Doklam plateau and the Chinese troops stopped building a key road close to India's corridor.

NSA Doval to hold border talks with China today

The Doklam stand-off had put severe pressure on bilateral relations between New Delhi and Beijing, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told his Indian counterpart Sushma Swaraj during a meeting, a statement from China said.

He added that lessons should be learnt from the episode so that &#39;such incidents are not repeated&#39;. The statement added that Wang had brought up the 73-day stand-off between the Indian and the Chinese troops in the Donglang (Doklam) sector near the Sikkim border in June, during a bilateral meeting with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj in New Delhi, on Monday.

Swaraj had then said at a press briefing that she and Wang had spoken about strengthening mutual trust to develop better understanding. The statement, published in Mandarin, said, &quot;The viciousness caused by the cross-border infiltration of the Indian border guards put bilateral relations under severe pressure. The matter was finally settled peacefully through diplomatic means, reflecting the maturing of bilateral relations. India-China ties maintained their momentum of development as a whole in 2017. Both sides have made efforts in this regard. But they (the efforts) were not very satisfactory. However, lessons should be learned and (such incidents) should be avoided again.&quot;

&quot;With mutual trust, the specific problems are expected to be resolved on the basis of mutual understanding and mutual accommodation,&quot; he added.

Wang&#39;s visit to New Delhi was the first by a top Chinese official to India after the Doklam stand-off.

He further said, &quot;Without mutual trust, individual problems will continue to overflow and erode the overall situation of bilateral relations. To this end, both sides should strengthen strategic communication at all levels, restore the established dialogue mechanism, deepen pragmatic cooperation in various fields, and at the same time control the existing differences and safeguard peace and tranquillity in the border areas.&quot;

Wang also called on President Ram Nath Kovind and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.

The Dokalam stand-off came to an end on August 28 after the two sides agreed to withdraw their respective troops from the Doklam plateau and the Chinese troops stopped building a key road close to India&#39;s corridor.

The road was being built by China in an area also claimed by Bhutan. India had objected to the construction highlighting its security concerns. Besides this, Chinese state-run Xinhua news agency also quoted Wang as saying, &quot;Sino-Indian relations are at a crucial moment when both sides need to make right choice on the future of the bilateral relations.&quot;

The Doklam stand-off had put severe pressure on bilateral relations between New Delhi and Beijing, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told his Indian counterpart Sushma Swaraj during a meeting, a statement from China said.

The Doklam stand-off had put severe pressure on bilateral relations between New Delhi and Beijing, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told his Indian counterpart Sushma Swaraj during a meeting, a statement from China said. He added that lessons should be learnt from the episode so that 'such incidents are not repeated'. The statement added that Wang had brought up the 73-day stand-off between the Indian and the Chinese troops in the Donglang (Doklam) sector near the Sikkim border in June, during a bilateral meeting with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj in New Delhi, on Monday. Swaraj had then said at a press briefing that she and Wang had spoken about strengthening mutual trust to develop better understanding. The statement, published in Mandarin, said, "The viciousness caused by the cross-border infiltration of the Indian border guards put bilateral relations under severe pressure. The matter was finally settled peacefully through diplomatic means, reflecting the maturing of bilateral relations. India-China ties maintained their momentum of development as a whole in 2017. Both sides have made efforts in this regard. But they (the efforts) were not very satisfactory. However, lessons should be learned and (such incidents) should be avoided again." "With mutual trust, the specific problems are expected to be resolved on the basis of mutual understanding and mutual accommodation," he added. Wang's visit to New Delhi was the first by a top Chinese official to India after the Doklam stand-off. He further said, "Without mutual trust, individual problems will continue to overflow and erode the overall situation of bilateral relations. To this end, both sides should strengthen strategic communication at all levels, restore the established dialogue mechanism, deepen pragmatic cooperation in various fields, and at the same time control the existing differences and safeguard peace and tranquillity in the border areas." Wang also called on President Ram Nath Kovind and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. The Dokalam stand-off came to an end on August 28 after the two sides agreed to withdraw their respective troops from the Doklam plateau and the Chinese troops stopped building a key road close to India's corridor. The road was being built by China in an area also claimed by Bhutan. India had objected to the construction highlighting its security concerns. Besides this, Chinese state-run Xinhua news agency also quoted Wang as saying, "Sino-Indian relations are at a crucial moment when both sides need to make right choice on the future of the bilateral relations."

Doklam stand-off put 'severe pressure' on ties with India: China

Clearly, it is not the trilateral Russia-India-China (RIC) Foreign Ministers&#39; meeting held in New Delhi on December 11 that made Wang Yi&#39;s visit to India significant. Rather, it is the current &quot;cold peace&quot; that exists in China-India relations after the prolonged Doklam border stand-off making the Chinese foreign minister&#39;s current visit significant.

Wang Yi&#39;s visit was significant in many ways. It was the first high-level Chinese official&#39;s visit to India after the two and a half month long Doklam border stand-off. The Chinese foreign minister&#39;s visit to India demonstrated once again that the multilateral mode of engagement keeps China-India ties moving even though their bilateral relationship is at a low tide. Over the years, the RIC foreign ministers&#39; meeting might have contributed a little to expand the level of trust that is required to strengthen the bilateral relations among Russia, India and China. Still, this trilateral meeting remains to date one of the most valuable preparatory forums to generate broader understanding for BRICS and other multilateral channels of engagement among these countries. In fact, the RIC foreign minister&#39;s meeting has acted more as a consultative political mechanism to improve the understanding among Russia, India and China on regional and global affairs. In that context, Wang Yi&#39;s visit offered a much-required momentum to China-India relations with Russia at the regional level.

Additionally, consultative meetings that take place at the bilateral level during these multilateral forums come as an additional bonus to the entire spectrum of engagement. The Chinese foreign minister&#39;s meeting with Indian foreign minister Sushma Swaraj on the sidelines of the RIC meeting was certainly a positive move for their bilateralism. Fresh report indicates that both the Chinese and Indian Foreign Minister had a &ldquo;positive and forward&rdquo; looking meeting which was aimed to offer a &ldquo;fresh momentum&rdquo; to China-India bilateral relations. In a way, Wang Yi&rsquo;s visit offered an occasion for Chinese and Indian leaderships and officials to think afresh how to approach the bilateral relations ahead to the year 2018. The Chinese foreign minister&rsquo;s acceptance to address the India-China cultural evening organised by the Pravasi Bhartiya Kendra came as a solace that the bilateral relations need a flexible diplomatic and political approach on both hands.

The post-Doklam period witnessed a slow improvement in China-India relations. In fact, during the Xiamen BRICS summit, both Xi Jinping and Narendra Modi agreed to nurture ahead a &ldquo;forward looking constructive&rdquo; relationship. A &ldquo;constructive&rdquo; relationship that would be &ldquo;forward-looking&rdquo; is a part of their official &ldquo;developmental partnership&rdquo; which was primarily constructed during President Xi Jinping&rsquo;s visit to India in September 2014. The essence of this &ldquo;developmental partnership&rdquo; is to forge a closer economic-oriented partnership, enhancing the decade-old &ldquo;Strategic and Cooperative Partnership of Peace and Prosperity&rdquo;. A range of bilateral dialogue mechanisms - Joint Economic Group (JEG), Strategic Economic Dialogue, Financial Dialogue, Joint Working Group (JWG), Defence and Security Dialogues, Strategic Economic Dialogue (SED), and Special Representatives (SRs) dialogue - are central to this partnership. These mechanisms have offered an official level of certainty to push forward the dialogue process between the two countries even though tensions between the two sides continue to recur concerning the boundary disputes. Thus, one might witness both China and India having regular meetings through these mechanisms in 2018. But the challenge would be how to expand the bilateral trade contacts that have been freezing for some time around US$71.18 billion between the two sides. Importantly, to India&rsquo;s concern, the bilateral trade deficit with China is increasing.

Opportunities are aplenty for China and India to nurture their bilateral ties ahead. Still, it would not be easy to nurture a &ldquo;forward-looking&rdquo; partnership given the assertive strategic perspectives that both countries currently hold towards each other. India&rsquo;s resolute stance on the Doklam border stand-off surprised Beijing enormously, from which Beijing is yet to recover completely and figure out how to configure its relationship with India forward. Besides, Beijing has not yet completely disengaged itself from the Doklam episode. Fresh Indian media report suggests that around 1,800 Chinese troops are still camping at Doklam even though the heavy winter have arrived in the plateau. But no matter what might be the Chinese approach towards India in times to come, India must be prepared to deal with a new China under Xi Jinping. Wang Yi&rsquo;s visit to India was undertaken after the recently concluded 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC), which has prepared a &ldquo;new era&rdquo; blueprint for China under Xi Jinping. Positioning China as the leader of the developing world and centre of the globalized world would be the new mantra of this &ldquo;new era&rdquo; plan. To promote this, China may employ a more consultative approach towards the developing world, but its approach towards India would be meagre since Beijing views India as a contending power to its developing-world leadership strategy.

Thus, New Delhi on its part needs to carefully observe Beijing&rsquo;s powerful foreign policy team that is looking at Asian affairs, especially at matters relating to India, after the 19th National Congress. Under Xi Jinping, Chinese foreign policy is undergoing continuous change, where Wang Yi is expected to play an influential role in China&rsquo;s policy approach to India. Wang&rsquo;s foreign policy exposure in the Chinese decision-making continuum is outstanding. As a former Chinese Ambassador to Japan, a former Director of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council and as a former Vice-Foreign Minister, Wang Yi is regarded as one of the finest and influential diplomats in the league of the CPC&rsquo;s foreign affairs. As a key member of the 17th and 18th Central Committees of the CPC, he is regarded as Xi Jinping&rsquo;s &ldquo;Asia Man&rdquo;. He is expected to play an influencing role in coming times on matters relating to key Asian affairs such as China-India boundary dispute, the South China Sea dispute or the East China Sea dispute.

Importantly, Wang Yi shares the distinction with Yang Jiechi, who is not only a member of the 18th Central Committee but a person in charge of China-India border affairs currently, especially the Special Representatives dialogue mechanism. With Yang Jiechi who has been recently elevated as a politburo member at the 19th National Congress, Wang Yi brings authority to China&rsquo;s decision-making process towards key Asian affairs, including matters relating to India. Yang Jiechi, a State Councillor is higher in ranking than the Foreign Minister Wang Yi. In a possible scenario of Yang Jiechi relinquishing the position of special representative of China-India border affairs in March 2018, Wang Yi is expected to be in charge. Approaching China under these new leaderships in coming times would therefore require smart diplomatic and political foresight in India.

Wang Yi&rsquo;s visit to India has offered a new political context for both the sides to rebuild the relationship afresh in 2018. Rebuilding the relationship would however require a flexible state approach on both sides. Xi Jinping&rsquo;s new China might not really be prepared to have a flexible approach towards India. The same can be said about India&rsquo;s current and future approach to China. India under Prime Minister Narendra Modi might not really succumb to any Chinese hard approach in coming times. Therefore, China-India relations would continue to make headlines even though the year 2018 might witness a more engaging relationship between the two countries at some level.

(Disclaimer: The author writes here in a personal capacity)

Wang Yi's visit was significant in many ways. It was the first high-level Chinese official's visit to India after the two and a half month long Doklam border stand-off.

Clearly, it is not the trilateral Russia-India-China (RIC) Foreign Ministers' meeting held in New Delhi on December 11 that made Wang Yi's visit to India significant. Rather, it is the current "cold peace" that exists in China-India relations after the prolonged Doklam border stand-off making the Chinese foreign minister's current visit significant. Wang Yi's visit was significant in many ways. It was the first high-level Chinese official's visit to India after the two and a half month long Doklam border stand-off. The Chinese foreign minister's visit to India demonstrated once again that the multilateral mode of engagement keeps China-India ties moving even though their bilateral relationship is at a low tide. Over the years, the RIC foreign ministers' meeting might have contributed a little to expand the level of trust that is required to strengthen the bilateral relations among Russia, India and China. Still, this trilateral meeting remains to date one of the most valuable preparatory forums to generate broader understanding for BRICS and other multilateral channels of engagement among these countries. In fact, the RIC foreign minister's meeting has acted more as a consultative political mechanism to improve the understanding among Russia, India and China on regional and global affairs. In that context, Wang Yi's visit offered a much-required momentum to China-India relations with Russia at the regional level. Additionally, consultative meetings that take place at the bilateral level during these multilateral forums come as an additional bonus to the entire spectrum of engagement. The Chinese foreign minister's meeting with Indian foreign minister Sushma Swaraj on the sidelines of the RIC meeting was certainly a positive move for their bilateralism. Fresh report indicates that both the Chinese and Indian Foreign Minister had a “positive and forward” looking meeting which was aimed to offer a “fresh momentum” to China-India bilateral relations. In a way, Wang Yi’s visit offered an occasion for Chinese and Indian leaderships and officials to think afresh how to approach the bilateral relations ahead to the year 2018. The Chinese foreign minister’s acceptance to address the India-China cultural evening organised by the Pravasi Bhartiya Kendra came as a solace that the bilateral relations need a flexible diplomatic and political approach on both hands. The post-Doklam period witnessed a slow improvement in China-India relations. In fact, during the Xiamen BRICS summit, both Xi Jinping and Narendra Modi agreed to nurture ahead a “forward looking constructive” relationship. A “constructive” relationship that would be “forward-looking” is a part of their official “developmental partnership” which was primarily constructed during President Xi Jinping’s visit to India in September 2014. The essence of this “developmental partnership” is to forge a closer economic-oriented partnership, enhancing the decade-old “Strategic and Cooperative Partnership of Peace and Prosperity”. A range of bilateral dialogue mechanisms - Joint Economic Group (JEG), Strategic Economic Dialogue, Financial Dialogue, Joint Working Group (JWG), Defence and Security Dialogues, Strategic Economic Dialogue (SED), and Special Representatives (SRs) dialogue - are central to this partnership. These mechanisms have offered an official level of certainty to push forward the dialogue process between the two countries even though tensions between the two sides continue to recur concerning the boundary disputes. Thus, one might witness both China and India having regular meetings through these mechanisms in 2018. But the challenge would be how to expand the bilateral trade contacts that have been freezing for some time around US$71.18 billion between the two sides. Importantly, to India’s concern, the bilateral trade deficit with China is increasing. Opportunities are aplenty for China and India to nurture their bilateral ties ahead. Still, it would not be easy to nurture a “forward-looking” partnership given the assertive strategic perspectives that both countries currently hold towards each other. India’s resolute stance on the Doklam border stand-off surprised Beijing enormously, from which Beijing is yet to recover completely and figure out how to configure its relationship with India forward. Besides, Beijing has not yet completely disengaged itself from the Doklam episode. Fresh Indian media report suggests that around 1,800 Chinese troops are still camping at Doklam even though the heavy winter have arrived in the plateau. But no matter what might be the Chinese approach towards India in times to come, India must be prepared to deal with a new China under Xi Jinping. Wang Yi’s visit to India was undertaken after the recently concluded 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC), which has prepared a “new era” blueprint for China under Xi Jinping. Positioning China as the leader of the developing world and centre of the globalized world would be the new mantra of this “new era” plan. To promote this, China may employ a more consultative approach towards the developing world, but its approach towards India would be meagre since Beijing views India as a contending power to its developing-world leadership strategy. Thus, New Delhi on its part needs to carefully observe Beijing’s powerful foreign policy team that is looking at Asian affairs, especially at matters relating to India, after the 19th National Congress. Under Xi Jinping, Chinese foreign policy is undergoing continuous change, where Wang Yi is expected to play an influential role in China’s policy approach to India. Wang’s foreign policy exposure in the Chinese decision-making continuum is outstanding. As a former Chinese Ambassador to Japan, a former Director of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council and as a former Vice-Foreign Minister, Wang Yi is regarded as one of the finest and influential diplomats in the league of the CPC’s foreign affairs. As a key member of the 17th and 18th Central Committees of the CPC, he is regarded as Xi Jinping’s “Asia Man”. He is expected to play an influencing role in coming times on matters relating to key Asian affairs such as China-India boundary dispute, the South China Sea dispute or the East China Sea dispute. Importantly, Wang Yi shares the distinction with Yang Jiechi, who is not only a member of the 18th Central Committee but a person in charge of China-India border affairs currently, especially the Special Representatives dialogue mechanism. With Yang Jiechi who has been recently elevated as a politburo member at the 19th National Congress, Wang Yi brings authority to China’s decision-making process towards key Asian affairs, including matters relating to India. Yang Jiechi, a State Councillor is higher in ranking than the Foreign Minister Wang Yi. In a possible scenario of Yang Jiechi relinquishing the position of special representative of China-India border affairs in March 2018, Wang Yi is expected to be in charge. Approaching China under these new leaderships in coming times would therefore require smart diplomatic and political foresight in India. Wang Yi’s visit to India has offered a new political context for both the sides to rebuild the relationship afresh in 2018. Rebuilding the relationship would however require a flexible state approach on both sides. Xi Jinping’s new China might not really be prepared to have a flexible approach towards India. The same can be said about India’s current and future approach to China. India under Prime Minister Narendra Modi might not really succumb to any Chinese hard approach in coming times. Therefore, China-India relations would continue to make headlines even though the year 2018 might witness a more engaging relationship between the two countries at some level. (Disclaimer: The author writes here in a personal capacity)

Opinion: Wang Yi's visit to India may not clear the mist in China-India relations

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Bangladesh counterpart AH Mahmood Ali in Dhaka on Saturday to discuss Myanmar&#39;s ongoing refugee crisis.

The talks focused on finding a solution to the crisis and safe return of the forcibly displaced Myanmar refugees.

They also discussed humanitarian assistance and international support to Bangladesh.

China has urged all parties to maintain an objective attitude and expressed support for what it calls Myanmar&#39;s recent efforts to bring stability to the region.

Speaking to the press, the Chinese foreign minister said the turbulence in Myanmar has spread to Bangladesh and brought burden to it, yet Bangladesh has managed to provide humanitarian aid to the Rohingya people who have crossed the border into Bangladesh.

Till now Bangladesh has been providing shelter and humanitarian support to more than a million forcibly displaced Rohingyas. But the country needs the support of the world community.

The international community has lauded Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her government for the compassion and generosity shown to the Myanmar people seeking refuge in Bangladesh.

The Rohingya issue is a complicated one touching on history, ethnicity and religion, among others, thus it calls for a comprehensive solution.

According to a press release issued by the Bangladesh, this visit of five different foreign ministers would give a push to Bangladesh&#39;s diplomatic efforts, for early and sustainable return of the Rohingyas.

The visit by the foreign ministers reflects the support of the international community for Rohingyas. After the visit, the foreign ministers will travel to Myanmar to attend the 13th ASEM Foreign Ministers&#39; Meeting.

The talks focused on finding a solution to the crisis and safe return of the forcibly displaced Myanmar refugees.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Bangladesh counterpart AH Mahmood Ali in Dhaka on Saturday to discuss Myanmar's ongoing refugee crisis. The talks focused on finding a solution to the crisis and safe return of the forcibly displaced Myanmar refugees. They also discussed humanitarian assistance and international support to Bangladesh. China has urged all parties to maintain an objective attitude and expressed support for what it calls Myanmar's recent efforts to bring stability to the region. Speaking to the press, the Chinese foreign minister said the turbulence in Myanmar has spread to Bangladesh and brought burden to it, yet Bangladesh has managed to provide humanitarian aid to the Rohingya people who have crossed the border into Bangladesh. Till now Bangladesh has been providing shelter and humanitarian support to more than a million forcibly displaced Rohingyas. But the country needs the support of the world community. The international community has lauded Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her government for the compassion and generosity shown to the Myanmar people seeking refuge in Bangladesh. The Rohingya issue is a complicated one touching on history, ethnicity and religion, among others, thus it calls for a comprehensive solution. According to a press release issued by the Bangladesh, this visit of five different foreign ministers would give a push to Bangladesh's diplomatic efforts, for early and sustainable return of the Rohingyas. The visit by the foreign ministers reflects the support of the international community for Rohingyas. After the visit, the foreign ministers will travel to Myanmar to attend the 13th ASEM Foreign Ministers' Meeting.

Chinese foreign minister arrives in Bangladesh to discuss Rakhine refugees issue

Chinese President is a diplomatic pioneer whose ideology has transcended centuries of Western international relations theory, Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Friday, lauding Xi ahead of a congress of the Communist Party.

China has become more assertive in its foreign policy under Xi, who has touted his global Belt and Road infrastructure plan and sought to position China as a pillar of globalisation.

China has also extended its global military reach, opening its first overseas base in Djibouti and using its expanding navy to take a more assertive stance in maritime disputes with neighbours.

Xi&#39;s &quot;diplomatic thought&quot; was a compass for foreign relations under new conditions and had become a marker of China&#39;s soft power, Wang said in an article in the Study Times, the official paper of the Central Party School that trains officials.

&quot;It also innovates upon and transcends the past 300 years of traditional Western international relations theory,&quot; said Wang, who has been taking an increasingly high profile as China expands its presence on the global stage.

Wang credited Xi with seeking friends and partners, not allies, putting aside differences to seek common ground, and doing away with the &quot;Cold War thinking&quot; of &quot;he who is not my friend is my enemy&quot;.

With the resolution of a &quot;reformer and a pioneer&quot;, Xi had answered the call of the times to &quot;put forward many new ideas that his predecessors had not&quot;, Wang said.

Wang credited China with successes under Xi, including promoting talks and denuclearisation on the Korean peninsula, as well as helping to counter global threats posed by international terrorism, climate change, and cyber security issues.

Since assuming office almost five years ago, Xi has consolidated power, including heading a group leading economic reform and appointing himself commander-in-chief of the military, though as head of the Central Military Commission he already controls the armed forces.

The party will open a once-every-five-years congress on Oct. 18, at which a new Standing Committee, the pinnacle of power in China, will be constituted.

Diplomatic sources believe Wang could take over later this year as China&#39;s top diplomat from State Councillor Yang Jiechi, 67, Wang&#39;s predecessor. Yang outranks Wang.

Chinese President is a diplomatic pioneer whose ideology has transcended centuries of Western international relations theory, Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Friday

Chinese President is a diplomatic pioneer whose ideology has transcended centuries of Western international relations theory, Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Friday, lauding Xi ahead of a congress of the Communist Party. China has become more assertive in its foreign policy under Xi, who has touted his global Belt and Road infrastructure plan and sought to position China as a pillar of globalisation. China has also extended its global military reach, opening its first overseas base in Djibouti and using its expanding navy to take a more assertive stance in maritime disputes with neighbours. Xi's "diplomatic thought" was a compass for foreign relations under new conditions and had become a marker of China's soft power, Wang said in an article in the Study Times, the official paper of the Central Party School that trains officials. "It also innovates upon and transcends the past 300 years of traditional Western international relations theory," said Wang, who has been taking an increasingly high profile as China expands its presence on the global stage. Wang credited Xi with seeking friends and partners, not allies, putting aside differences to seek common ground, and doing away with the "Cold War thinking" of "he who is not my friend is my enemy". With the resolution of a "reformer and a pioneer", Xi had answered the call of the times to "put forward many new ideas that his predecessors had not", Wang said. Wang credited China with successes under Xi, including promoting talks and denuclearisation on the Korean peninsula, as well as helping to counter global threats posed by international terrorism, climate change, and cyber security issues. Since assuming office almost five years ago, Xi has consolidated power, including heading a group leading economic reform and appointing himself commander-in-chief of the military, though as head of the Central Military Commission he already controls the armed forces. The party will open a once-every-five-years congress on Oct. 18, at which a new Standing Committee, the pinnacle of power in China, will be constituted. Diplomatic sources believe Wang could take over later this year as China's top diplomat from State Councillor Yang Jiechi, 67, Wang's predecessor. Yang outranks Wang.

China says Xi transcends West as a diplomatic "pioneer"

China on Wednesday asked India to &quot;learn lessons&quot; from the stand-off in Doklam and prevent such incidents in future. It also blamed &quot;Indian trespassing&quot; for the border face-off between the two countries.

The countries ended their standoff in Dokalam by withdrawing their troops from the area.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi was on Wednesday asked to respond to media reports that India withdrew its troops to provide a face saver to China after reaching a settlement.

Wang Yi said the 73-day stand-off between India and China in the strategic disputed region near Sikkim ended after India withdrew its troops.

&quot;The border face off caused by Indian trespassing has been settled,&quot; he said, adding that as per the &quot;authoritative information&quot; with the Chinese government, Indian troops had withdrawn from the area on the afternoon of August 28, which &quot;brought the faceoff to an end&quot;.

&quot;That is a basic fact and of course, we hope that the Indian side will learn lessons from this incident and prevent similar things from happening again,&quot; he said.

Asked about the differences between the two countries, Wang said, &quot;India and China are two big countries. It is natural that there are some problems in our interactions&quot;.

&quot;What is important is that we put these differences at appropriate place and under the principle of mutual respect and following the consensus of our leaders, we need to handle and manage them properly,&quot; he said.

&quot;In the meantime, with our engagement through different mechanisms we need to work out a solution in the long run&quot;.

The Chinese foreign minister was addressing a press conference in Beijing on the BRICS summit to be held in Xiamen city next week

He evaded a direct reply on whether there will be meeting between Modi and President Xi Jinping, saying instead that there will be bilateral meetings and interactions between the participating leaders which is natural practice.

The face-off in Dokalam was resolved days before Prime Minister Narendra Modi&#39;s visit to China for the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) summit next week.

India&#39;s External Affairs Ministry did not immediately comment on the Chinese foreign minister&#39;s remarks.

Troops of both countries had involved in a standoff in Dokalam since June 16 after Indian troops stopped the Chinese Army from constructing a road in the strategically important region, a disputed area between China and Bhutan.

The Indian Army had blocked the construction of the road as it could give China a major military advantage over India at the Bhutan-China-India tri-junction.

India yesterday announced that Modi will take part in the Xiamen summit.

&quot;On the sidelines of the BRICS meeting, Xi will also have meetings with some leaders upon their request. Once relevant arrangements are decided we will let you know. The first thing is whether the leaders will have the willingness to meet. If there is willingness of the leaders participating in the meeting, as a host the Chinese side will try to make it possible if our schedule programme permits,&quot; he said.

About the discord between India and China, which are important members of the BRICS, he said &quot;we hope through the efforts of both sides we will maintain healthy and stable momentum of growth for China India relations&quot; in the interest of Chinese and Indian people as well as meeting the aspiration of international community and neighbouring countries.

Wang said there is huge potential and space for greater cooperation between China and India and such cooperation serves the interest of the two countries.

&quot;We hope China and India will join hands and work together for rejuvenation of Asia and for the development of our region and contribute our share to greater development,&quot; he said.

The BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) summit will be held in the southeast Chinese city of Xiamen from September 3 to 5.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi was on Wednesday asked to respond to media reports that India withdrew its troops to provide a face saver to China after reaching a settlement

China on Wednesday asked India to "learn lessons" from the stand-off in Doklam and prevent such incidents in future. It also blamed "Indian trespassing" for the border face-off between the two countries. The countries ended their standoff in Dokalam by withdrawing their troops from the area. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi was on Wednesday asked to respond to media reports that India withdrew its troops to provide a face saver to China after reaching a settlement. Wang Yi said the 73-day stand-off between India and China in the strategic disputed region near Sikkim ended after India withdrew its troops. "The border face off caused by Indian trespassing has been settled," he said, adding that as per the "authoritative information" with the Chinese government, Indian troops had withdrawn from the area on the afternoon of August 28, which "brought the faceoff to an end". "That is a basic fact and of course, we hope that the Indian side will learn lessons from this incident and prevent similar things from happening again," he said. Asked about the differences between the two countries, Wang said, "India and China are two big countries. It is natural that there are some problems in our interactions". "What is important is that we put these differences at appropriate place and under the principle of mutual respect and following the consensus of our leaders, we need to handle and manage them properly," he said. "In the meantime, with our engagement through different mechanisms we need to work out a solution in the long run". The Chinese foreign minister was addressing a press conference in Beijing on the BRICS summit to be held in Xiamen city next week He evaded a direct reply on whether there will be meeting between Modi and President Xi Jinping, saying instead that there will be bilateral meetings and interactions between the participating leaders which is natural practice. The face-off in Dokalam was resolved days before Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to China for the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) summit next week. India's External Affairs Ministry did not immediately comment on the Chinese foreign minister's remarks. Troops of both countries had involved in a standoff in Dokalam since June 16 after Indian troops stopped the Chinese Army from constructing a road in the strategically important region, a disputed area between China and Bhutan. The Indian Army had blocked the construction of the road as it could give China a major military advantage over India at the Bhutan-China-India tri-junction. India yesterday announced that Modi will take part in the Xiamen summit. "On the sidelines of the BRICS meeting, Xi will also have meetings with some leaders upon their request. Once relevant arrangements are decided we will let you know. The first thing is whether the leaders will have the willingness to meet. If there is willingness of the leaders participating in the meeting, as a host the Chinese side will try to make it possible if our schedule programme permits," he said. About the discord between India and China, which are important members of the BRICS, he said "we hope through the efforts of both sides we will maintain healthy and stable momentum of growth for China India relations" in the interest of Chinese and Indian people as well as meeting the aspiration of international community and neighbouring countries. Wang said there is huge potential and space for greater cooperation between China and India and such cooperation serves the interest of the two countries. "We hope China and India will join hands and work together for rejuvenation of Asia and for the development of our region and contribute our share to greater development," he said. The BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) summit will be held in the southeast Chinese city of Xiamen from September 3 to 5.

What China has to say on being given face-saver on Doklam stand-off

Foreign Minister Wang Yi of China told his US counterpart Rex Tillerson that Beijing was ready to work with the Trump administration, according to a Chinese account of their meeting in Bonn.

Wang and Tillerson met on Friday at a G20 gathering of foreign ministers -- the highest-level Sino-US encounter since President Donald Trump was elected.

Trump had infuriated Beijing by calling into question Washington&#39;s long-standing &quot;One China&quot; policy, but later reaffirmed it in a conciliatory phone call to Chinese President Xi Jinping last week.

Wang told Tillerson this consensus on the issue &quot;created the necessary pre-conditions for the two nations to engage in strategic cooperation on bilateral, regional, and global issues,&quot; said a Chinese foreign ministry statement issued late Friday.

&quot;Wang said that China and the United States, both shouldering the responsibilities of securing world stability and enhancing global prosperity, had more common interests than disputes,&quot; the statement went on.

&quot;China is ready to work with the US side to implement the consensus reached between President Xi and President Trump, and move the bilateral relationship forward in the direction that features no conflict, no confrontation, mutual respect and win-win cooperation.&quot;

Wang added that the two sides should increase communication and cooperation &quot;to ensure greater development of bilateral relations during Trump&#39;s presidency.&quot;

The &quot;One China&quot; policy is an acknowledgement that Taiwan is not separate from mainland China.

Trump&#39;s telephone call with Taiwan&#39;s president after his November election victory infuriated Beijing, which saw it as a repudiation of the &quot;One China&quot; policy.

Wang&#39;s attendance at the G20 foreign ministers&#39; meeting seemed in doubt in the fallout, but after Trump&#39;s call with Xi, it was announced that the trip would go ahead.

Taiwan has been ruled separately since Mao Zedong&#39;s communists ousted China&#39;s Nationalists who fled to the island in 1949.

On the campaign trail, Trump regularly attacked China for stealing American jobs and running a massive, unfair trade surplus that he vowed to reverse.

The US State Department said the two ministers discussed the need for a &quot;level playing field for trade and investment.&quot;

It said Tillerson also told Wang that Beijing must rein in North Korea after its series of nuclear and ballistic missile tests.

(AFP)

Trump had infuriated Beijing by calling into question Washington's long-standing 'One China' policy

Foreign Minister Wang Yi of China told his US counterpart Rex Tillerson that Beijing was ready to work with the Trump administration, according to a Chinese account of their meeting in Bonn. Wang and Tillerson met on Friday at a G20 gathering of foreign ministers -- the highest-level Sino-US encounter since President Donald Trump was elected. Trump had infuriated Beijing by calling into question Washington's long-standing "One China" policy, but later reaffirmed it in a conciliatory phone call to Chinese President Xi Jinping last week. Wang told Tillerson this consensus on the issue "created the necessary pre-conditions for the two nations to engage in strategic cooperation on bilateral, regional, and global issues," said a Chinese foreign ministry statement issued late Friday. "Wang said that China and the United States, both shouldering the responsibilities of securing world stability and enhancing global prosperity, had more common interests than disputes," the statement went on. "China is ready to work with the US side to implement the consensus reached between President Xi and President Trump, and move the bilateral relationship forward in the direction that features no conflict, no confrontation, mutual respect and win-win cooperation." Wang added that the two sides should increase communication and cooperation "to ensure greater development of bilateral relations during Trump's presidency." The "One China" policy is an acknowledgement that Taiwan is not separate from mainland China. Trump's telephone call with Taiwan's president after his November election victory infuriated Beijing, which saw it as a repudiation of the "One China" policy. Wang's attendance at the G20 foreign ministers' meeting seemed in doubt in the fallout, but after Trump's call with Xi, it was announced that the trip would go ahead. Taiwan has been ruled separately since Mao Zedong's communists ousted China's Nationalists who fled to the island in 1949. On the campaign trail, Trump regularly attacked China for stealing American jobs and running a massive, unfair trade surplus that he vowed to reverse. The US State Department said the two ministers discussed the need for a "level playing field for trade and investment." It said Tillerson also told Wang that Beijing must rein in North Korea after its series of nuclear and ballistic missile tests. (AFP)

Chinese foreign minister tells Tillerson Beijing ready to work with US

US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson on Friday used his first meeting with Chinese counterpart Wang Yi to urge Beijing to help rein in North Korea after its series of nuclear and ballistic missile tests.

Trump however reaffirmed the position in a conciliatory phone call to Chinese President Xi Jinping, mending fences enough for Wang to come to Bonn for a G20 foreign ministers meeting.

&quot;Secretary Tillerson and Minister Wang noted the recent call between leaders and discussed efforts to advance bilateral cooperation while addressing differences in a constructive manner,&quot; Mark Toner, acting US State Department spokesman, said.

&quot;Secretary Tillerson also highlighted the increasing threat posed by North Korea&#39;s nuclear and missile programs and urged China to use all available tools to moderate North Korea&#39;s destabilising behaviour,&quot; Toner said.

China is North Korea&#39;s last major ally and has shown itself reluctant to put too much pressure on Pyongyang.

In the meantime, reclusive North Korea has made huge strides in both its missile and nuclear weapons programme to the point where it could acquire the capability to hit the US mainland.

Washington has led international efforts to get Pyongyang to reverse course, including imposing sanctions, but all to no avail as its regional allies take fright at North Korea&#39;s ambitions.

On Thursday, Tillerson pledged that Washington would use the full range of its arsenal, including nuclear weapons, to defend Japan and South Korea against North Korea, which conducted another ballistic missile test on Sunday.

&quot;The United States remains steadfast in its defence commitments to its allies, the Republic of Korea and Japan, including the commitment to provide extended deterrence, backed by the full range of its nuclear and conventional defence capabilities,&quot; Tillerson said in a joint statement with their foreign ministers.

Washington&#39;s recent decision to install a sophisticated THAAD anti-missile system in South Korea especially angered China which condemned the move as a potential threat to its own security.&nbsp;

Global trade, protectionism&nbsp;

Toner said Tillerson and Yang &quot;also discussed the need to create a level playing field for trade and investment.&quot;

On the campaign trail, Trump regularly attacked China for stealing American jobs and running a massive, unfairly won trade surplus with the United States which he would reverse by whatever means necessary.

Chinese President Xi pointedly made a signature address to the Davos World Economic Forum in January to defend free trade and globalisation which he said were menaced by growing protectionist sentiment.

When the Chinese foreign ministry &nbsp;announced Wang&#39;s trip would go ahead, it said Beijing hoped the G20 gathering would &quot;send positive signals on supporting multilateralism, enhancing global governance and creating an innovative, interconnected, open and inclusive world economy.&quot;

Several of Trump&#39;s cabinet, including Tillerson, have also warned Beijing against throwing its weight about in the South China Sea, insisting the US would intervene if necessary to preserve international rights of navigation.

Although Washington severed ties with Taiwan in 1979, it has retained close links with Taipei, particularly in defence, and Beijing watches closely for any sign of US backsliding.

Taiwan has been ruled separately since Mao Zedong&#39;s communists ousted China&#39;s Nationalists who fled to the island in 1949.

(AFP) 
&nbsp;

China is North Korea's last major ally and has shown itself reluctant to put too much pressure on Pyongyang

US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson on Friday used his first meeting with Chinese counterpart Wang Yi to urge Beijing to help rein in North Korea after its series of nuclear and ballistic missile tests. Trump however reaffirmed the position in a conciliatory phone call to Chinese President Xi Jinping, mending fences enough for Wang to come to Bonn for a G20 foreign ministers meeting. "Secretary Tillerson and Minister Wang noted the recent call between leaders and discussed efforts to advance bilateral cooperation while addressing differences in a constructive manner," Mark Toner, acting US State Department spokesman, said. "Secretary Tillerson also highlighted the increasing threat posed by North Korea's nuclear and missile programs and urged China to use all available tools to moderate North Korea's destabilising behaviour," Toner said. China is North Korea's last major ally and has shown itself reluctant to put too much pressure on Pyongyang. In the meantime, reclusive North Korea has made huge strides in both its missile and nuclear weapons programme to the point where it could acquire the capability to hit the US mainland. Washington has led international efforts to get Pyongyang to reverse course, including imposing sanctions, but all to no avail as its regional allies take fright at North Korea's ambitions. On Thursday, Tillerson pledged that Washington would use the full range of its arsenal, including nuclear weapons, to defend Japan and South Korea against North Korea, which conducted another ballistic missile test on Sunday. "The United States remains steadfast in its defence commitments to its allies, the Republic of Korea and Japan, including the commitment to provide extended deterrence, backed by the full range of its nuclear and conventional defence capabilities," Tillerson said in a joint statement with their foreign ministers. Washington's recent decision to install a sophisticated THAAD anti-missile system in South Korea especially angered China which condemned the move as a potential threat to its own security. Global trade, protectionism Toner said Tillerson and Yang "also discussed the need to create a level playing field for trade and investment." On the campaign trail, Trump regularly attacked China for stealing American jobs and running a massive, unfairly won trade surplus with the United States which he would reverse by whatever means necessary. Chinese President Xi pointedly made a signature address to the Davos World Economic Forum in January to defend free trade and globalisation which he said were menaced by growing protectionist sentiment. When the Chinese foreign ministry announced Wang's trip would go ahead, it said Beijing hoped the G20 gathering would "send positive signals on supporting multilateralism, enhancing global governance and creating an innovative, interconnected, open and inclusive world economy." Several of Trump's cabinet, including Tillerson, have also warned Beijing against throwing its weight about in the South China Sea, insisting the US would intervene if necessary to preserve international rights of navigation. Although Washington severed ties with Taiwan in 1979, it has retained close links with Taipei, particularly in defence, and Beijing watches closely for any sign of US backsliding. Taiwan has been ruled separately since Mao Zedong's communists ousted China's Nationalists who fled to the island in 1949. (AFP)

US wants China to moderate North Korea's 'destabilising behaviour'

Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi met with Burmese State Counselor and foreign minister Aung San Suu Kyi on the sidelines of the ongoing 49th ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting (AMM) and Post-Ministerial Conferences (PMC) in Vientiane, Laos on Sunday, both promising to strengthen ties and cooperation. 
 
Wang conveyed Chinese President Xi Jinping&rsquo;s greetings to Suu Kyi. 
 
He said that China and Myanmar have a deep friendship and maintain understanding, respect, and support for one another. 
 
Wang congratulated Suu Kyi&rsquo;s new government for keeping an upbeat situation in its first 100 days and wished Myanmar further progress in its development. 
 
Wang expressed China&rsquo;s goodwill to become a trusted partner of Myanmar in its development progress, saying that China is willing to increase high-level communication and push forward practical cooperation in all fields. 
 
Suu Kyi said that China is Myanmar&rsquo;s largest friendly neighbour, and the people from two countries share strong links with each other, adding that Myanmar appreciates China&rsquo;s support and aid in its economic development as well as national reconciliation. 
 
Suu Kyi said she hopes China will continue to give Myanmar support as a good friend of the country. Myanmar is willing to work with China to continue to strengthen their relationship and pass down the traditional friendship between the two nations to later generations, she added. 
 
&#39;Media focus on South China Sea very strange&#39;&nbsp; 
 
Wang during bilateral meetings with ASEAN members on Sunday said he thought the media focus on the South China Sea issue was &quot;very strange&quot;. 
 
&quot;You should focus on China-ASEAN cooperation,&quot; he said. 
 
Southeast Asian nations failed to agree on maritime disputes in the South China Sea on Sunday after Cambodia blocked any mention to an international court ruling against Beijing in their statement, diplomats said. 
 
Foreign ministers from the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) met for the first time since the UN-backed Permanent Court of Arbitration handed an emphatic legal victory to the Philippines in the dispute this month. 
 
The ruling by the court in The Hague denied China&#39;s sweeping claims in the strategic seaway, through which more than $5 trillion in global trade passes each year. 
 
China claims most of the sea, but ASEAN members the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei all have rival claims. Beijing says the ruling has no bearing on its rights in the sea, and described the case as a farce. 
 
(Reuters)

Foreign ministers of 10-member ASEAN met for first time since the Hague ruling on maritime disputes in the South China Sea

Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi met with Burmese State Counselor and foreign minister Aung San Suu Kyi on the sidelines of the ongoing 49th ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting (AMM) and Post-Ministerial Conferences (PMC) in Vientiane, Laos on Sunday, both promising to strengthen ties and cooperation. Wang conveyed Chinese President Xi Jinping’s greetings to Suu Kyi. He said that China and Myanmar have a deep friendship and maintain understanding, respect, and support for one another. Wang congratulated Suu Kyi’s new government for keeping an upbeat situation in its first 100 days and wished Myanmar further progress in its development. Wang expressed China’s goodwill to become a trusted partner of Myanmar in its development progress, saying that China is willing to increase high-level communication and push forward practical cooperation in all fields. Suu Kyi said that China is Myanmar’s largest friendly neighbour, and the people from two countries share strong links with each other, adding that Myanmar appreciates China’s support and aid in its economic development as well as national reconciliation. Suu Kyi said she hopes China will continue to give Myanmar support as a good friend of the country. Myanmar is willing to work with China to continue to strengthen their relationship and pass down the traditional friendship between the two nations to later generations, she added. 'Media focus on South China Sea very strange' Wang during bilateral meetings with ASEAN members on Sunday said he thought the media focus on the South China Sea issue was "very strange". "You should focus on China-ASEAN cooperation," he said. Southeast Asian nations failed to agree on maritime disputes in the South China Sea on Sunday after Cambodia blocked any mention to an international court ruling against Beijing in their statement, diplomats said. Foreign ministers from the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) met for the first time since the UN-backed Permanent Court of Arbitration handed an emphatic legal victory to the Philippines in the dispute this month. The ruling by the court in The Hague denied China's sweeping claims in the strategic seaway, through which more than $5 trillion in global trade passes each year. China claims most of the sea, but ASEAN members the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei all have rival claims. Beijing says the ruling has no bearing on its rights in the sea, and described the case as a farce. (Reuters)

China promises to strengthen ties with Myanmar

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