Blinken and Wang Yi Discuss Taiwan Amid Rising Tensions

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Chinese counterpart Wang Yi discussed Taiwan, raised concerns over Beijing's recent actions, and stressed the importance of military-to-military ties. Blinken conveyed messages from U.S. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris on stability and a rules-based order. Human rights issues and counter narcotics were also addressed.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken held extensive talks with Chinese counterpart Wang Yi about Taiwan on Saturday, raising concerns over Beijing's recent 'provocative actions,' according to a senior U.S. State Department official. Blinken pointed to a simulated blockade during Taiwan President Lai Ching-te's inauguration.

The dialogue, marking their sixth meeting since June 2023, took place on the sidelines of a regional summit in Laos and spanned one hour and 20 minutes. Blinken conveyed the U.S. administration's emphasis on stability in the U.S.-China relationship and the importance of a rules-based order.

In the talk, Blinken also raised U.S. concerns regarding human rights in Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Tibet, as well as the need for stricter measures to counter narcotics, particularly fentanyl precursors from China. China's foreign ministry did not immediately respond.

(With inputs from agencies.)