Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met with PRC Director of the CCP Central Foreign Affairs Commission and Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Vientiane, Laos, on July 27, on the sidelines of ASEAN-related ministerial meetings.
The two sides engaged in open discussions on key bilateral, regional, and global issues. Secretary Blinken emphasized the importance of using diplomacy to manage competition responsibly, discuss areas of difference candidly, and progress on cooperation that matters to the American people and the world. He urged continued implementation of commitments from the leaders' Woodside Summit, noting recent PRC steps to advance counternarcotics cooperation and enhance military communication to prevent conflict.
Blinken reiterated that the United States will take necessary actions to safeguard its interests and values, as well as those of its allies and partners, including on human rights. He underscored resolving cases of wrongfully detained or exit-banned American citizens in China as a top priority.
"The United States, together with our allies and partners, will advance our vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific," said Blinken. He stressed maintaining peace across the Taiwan Strait and raised concerns about PRC actions in the South China Sea. The Secretary affirmed U.S. support for freedom of navigation and peaceful dispute resolution under international law.
Blinken expressed serious concern over PRC support for Russia’s defense industrial base. "If the PRC does not act to address this threat to European security," he stated, "the United States will continue to take appropriate measures." He also discussed North Korea's provocative actions and highlighted regional cooperation needs regarding Burma's situation.
Additionally, Blinken updated Wang Yi on efforts toward a ceasefire in Gaza and emphasized reaching an agreement promptly.
Both parties recognized the importance of maintaining open lines of communication moving forward.
