China has urged the United States to exercise “the utmost caution” over Taiwan, warning that even a small misstep could have serious consequences for bilateral relations.
The warning came during a phone call on Tuesday between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, according to China’s Foreign Ministry.
‘A Slight Move Could Affect Everything’
According to Beijing’s official readout of the conversation, Wang stressed that Taiwan remains the most sensitive issue in China-US relations.
“A slight move on the Taiwan issue could affect the whole situation,” Wang said.
He added that China and the United States should work together to manage risks and avoid further escalation.
Call Follows Xi-Trump Meeting
The conversation came weeks after Chinese President Xi Jinping met US President Donald Trump in Beijing in mid-May.
During that summit, Xi reportedly warned that mishandling differences over Taiwan could push China-US relations into an “extremely dangerous place.”
Taiwan Remains a Major Flashpoint
China considers the self-governed island of Taiwan part of its territory and has not ruled out using military force to bring it under Beijing’s control.
Taiwan rejects China’s sovereignty claims, while the United States is legally committed to providing Taipei with the means to defend itself under the Taiwan Relations Act.
Calls for Stable Relations
Despite the warning, Wang said both countries should continue working towards a “constructive, strategically stable relationship.”
He added that both sides should remove obstacles, manage differences and maintain dialogue.
According to the Chinese Foreign Ministry, Wang and Rubio agreed to continue communicating through flexible channels.
(with inputs from Reuters)
