China on Wednesday said it is prepared to expand cooperation and manage differences with the United States on the basis of equality, mutual respect and mutual benefit, ahead of US President Donald Trump’s state visit to the country.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun, addressing a media briefing in Beijing, said China was willing to work with Washington to bring greater stability and certainty to a “transforming and volatile world.”
“China stands ready to work with the US to expand cooperation and manage differences in the spirit of equality, respect and mutual benefit, and provide more stability and certainty for a transforming and volatile world,” Guo said.
He said Beijing welcomed Trump’s state visit to China, during which leaders of the two countries would hold “in-depth exchanges of views” on key issues concerning China-US relations as well as global peace and development.
China and the United States are expected to discuss extending a temporary deal that eases restrictions on Chinese exports of rare earth materials during an upcoming meeting between leaders. However, despite this possible extension, China is still limiting shipments of some key materials that are critical for defense and high-tech manufacturing.
Trump’s visit to China began on Wednesday and will continue until May 15.
During the briefing, Guo also reiterated Beijing’s strong opposition to US arms sales to Taiwan, saying China’s position on the issue remained “consistent and clear.”
Responding to a question on whether China would consider the release of Hong Kong media entrepreneur Jimmy Lai if raised by Trump during talks, Guo rejected the suggestion and described the matter as China’s internal affair.
“Lai Chee-ying is the principal mastermind and perpetrator behind the riots that shook Hong Kong,” Guo said, adding that the Chinese central government firmly supports Hong Kong judicial authorities in handling the case in accordance with the law.
