• Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized the need for cautious handling of Taiwan-related issues in a call with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
  • Both sides agreed on the importance of controlling risks and maintaining a constructive bilateral relationship.
  • The exchange signals ongoing efforts to stabilize US-China ties amid strategic competition.

Managing Risks Across the Pacific

China’s top diplomat, Wang Yi, held a phone conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, according to a readout from China’s foreign ministry. Wang stressed that the United States should treat Taiwan-related issues with caution, reiterating Beijing’s firm stance on the “One China” principle. The call, reported by state news agency Xinhua, comes as both nations seek to manage tensions in a relationship marked by deep strategic rivalry.

Wang urged the two sides to “control risks” and stay on a course toward a “constructive relationship of strategic stability,” according to the official Chinese account. The readout did not provide specific details on Rubio’s response, but the exchange reflects a pattern of high-level dialogue aimed at preventing misunderstandings from escalating into open conflict.

A Core Flashpoint

Taiwan remains the most sensitive issue in US-China relations. Beijing considers the self-governed island a breakaway province and has ramped up military vigilance in recent years. Washington, while officially adhering to its own “One China” policy, maintains unofficial ties with Taipei and has legal obligations to assist Taiwan’s self-defense. The call underscores Beijing’s persistent demand for the US to rein in any actions that could be interpreted as supporting independence.

Broader context

The conversation is part of an ongoing effort to keep communication channels open. Both Wang and Rubio have spoken previously, with similar themes of respecting core interests. The latest exchange comes amid broader US-China jockeying over trade, technology, and regional influence. No immediate policy shifts were announced, but analysts view the dialogue as a positive sign that both sides prefer managed competition over confrontation. A person familiar with the matter said Beijing remains wary of US moves on Taiwan but sees value in direct talks to avoid miscalculations.

Correction: An earlier version of this article misstated the date of the call. The conversation occurred on Friday.