Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed a warm welcome to former US secretary of state Henry Kissinger during his visit to Beijing, acknowledging that the current moment is critical for the future of China-US relations. The veteran American diplomat, who recently celebrated his 100th birthday, had also met with Chinese Defense Minister Li Shangfu during his visit.
Addressing his esteemed guest on Thursday, President Xi emphasized that once again, China and the US stand at a crucial crossroads, faced with choices that will shape the trajectory of their relationship. He reaffirmed the enduring bond between the Chinese people and Henry Kissinger, with his name always linked to Sino-US relations. President Xi expressed China’s willingness to explore paths of peaceful coexistence between the two major global powers.
Henry Kissinger, known for his pivotal role in resolving the Vietnam War and facilitating the normalization of relations between the US and China during the Cold War, stressed the significance of Sino-American relations for world peace and the progress of human society.
During his meeting with Defense Minister Li Shangfu on Tuesday, Kissinger urged both nations to steer away from their current confrontational path.
Over the past few years, US-China relations have experienced a steady decline, particularly concerning issues related to Taiwan and trade. In an effort to ease tensions, Washington has sent high-level officials, including Secretary of State Antony Blinken, to engage in dialogue with Beijing.
Furthermore, the Biden administration has strengthened military alliances in the Asia-Pacific region with countries like Australia, Japan, and South Korea, while providing military support to Taiwan.
Recently, at a summit in Vilnius, NATO accused China of pursuing “coercive policies” that threatened the interests of the US-led bloc. In response, Beijing rejected these allegations, labeling them as “slander” and reflective of a Cold War mentality.
