U.S. and China Engage in High-Stakes Dialogue over Taiwan, Russia

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Chinese counterpart Wang Yi discussed Taiwan and China's recent provocative actions, including a simulated blockade during Taiwan President Lai Ching-te's inauguration. The meeting took place at a regional summit, addressing military ties and China's support for Russia's defense industry.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken had an extensive conversation with Chinese counterpart Wang Yi about Taiwan on Saturday, where he raised concerns about Beijing's recent provocative actions, a senior U.S. official said. Those actions included a simulated blockade during the inauguration of Taiwan President Lai Ching-te, the senior State Department official said, adding that Blinken and Wang agreed to keep making progress on their countries' military-to military ties.

The two met for one hour, 20 minutes on the sidelines of a regional summit, where Blinken also discussed China's support for Russia's defense industrial base and warned that the U.S. would take action against Chinese firms aiding the war in Ukraine, the official said, adding there was no commitment from Wang on the issue.

Blinken's talks with Wang Yi highlighted deepening tensions over key geopolitical issues, with the U.S. emphasizing the seriousness of China's conduct regarding Taiwan and Russia.

(With inputs from agencies.)