China Warns US Over South China Sea, Taiwan Issues During Sullivan's Visit

China has cautioned the US against supporting the Philippines' actions in the South China Sea and emphasized that Taiwan belongs to China. The statements were made during US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's visit to China, marking the first such visit in eight years.

China has issued a stern warning to the United States amid rising tensions in the South China Sea. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, during his meeting with US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, urged the US not to endorse or condone the Philippines' actions in the contested region.

Chinese Ambassador to the United States, Xie Feng, echoed these sentiments in an online post. He stated that China will firmly safeguard its territorial sovereignty over the South China Sea islands and maintain its maritime rights. Xie also emphasized that the US should not compromise China's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The situation in the South China Sea is exacerbated by recent encounters between a Philippines Bureau of Fisheries vessel and multiple Chinese Coast Guard ships. Additionally, Wang Yi reiterated China's position on Taiwan, urging the US to follow the one-China principle and cease supporting Taiwan independence.

Sullivan's visit to Beijing marks the first visit by a US National Security Advisor to China in eight years, the last being Susan Rice in 2016. White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby noted that Sullivan's visit includes meetings with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi over two days, from August 27 to August 29.

(With inputs from agencies.)