Beijing, Apr 26 (EFE).- US Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged China on Friday to withdraw its support for Russia and cease supplying military equipment that could be used in the conflict in Ukraine.
“I made it clear that if China does not address this problem, we will,” Blinken told reporters at the end of his visit to China, during which he met with his counterpart, Wang Yi, and with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
The secretary expressed US concerns to Beijing regarding China’s supply of military equipment to Russia.
“Russia would struggle to sustain its assault on Ukraine without China’s support,” Blinken said.
He said China must address the issue and did not rule out the possibility of imposing sanctions on Chinese companies that assist Russia.
Since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, China has maintained an ambiguous stance, calling for respect for “territorial integrity” and highlighting the “legitimate concerns of all countries,” particularly Russia.
Beijing has denied allegations of selling weapons to Russia and insists on maintaining a “normal” trade relationship with Moscow.
However, US officials have warned that Chinese companies are aiding the Russian arms industry by selling equipment that could be used in the production of ballistic missiles.
“Fueling Russia’s defense industrial base not only threatens Ukrainian security, it threatens European security,” Blinken said.
“As we have told China for some time, ensuring transatlantic security is a core US interest.”
This issue risks further complicating relations between Washington and Beijing after fraught with trade and security disputes despite recent progress.
On a positive note, Blinken welcomed restoring military communication and their cooperation in combating narcotics.
“We are committed to maintaining and strengthening lines of communication to advance that agenda, and again deal responsibly with our differences so we avoid any miscommunications, any misperceptions, or any miscalculations,” he said.
The US diplomat said both countries would hold their inaugural discussions on artificial intelligence and the security risks involved in the following weeks.
He said his talks with Chinese officials covered various issues, including Taiwan, the South China Sea, human rights, and the production and export of synthetic opioid precursors.
Blinken also addressed the situation in the South China Sea, asserting that the US must “ensure freedom of navigation.”
He said it was crucial not only for countries like the Philippines but for any nation in the Pacific and beyond.
“We have expressed our concerns about China’s activities in the region. The US seeks de-escalation but will honor its security commitments,” he said, referring to the mutual defense treaty between Washington and Manila.
Blinken also conveyed to Wang Yi his hope that China can “utilize its influence” in countries like Iran or North Korea to demonstrate a willingness to engage in regional issues. EFE
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