US Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the importance of responsible management of differences between the United States and China ahead of anticipated challenging discussions.
During his visit to Shanghai, Blinken engaged in various activities, including sampling local cuisine, attending a basketball game, and taking a stroll along the Bund promenade.
Meeting with Shanghai’s Communist Party leader, Blinken reiterated President Biden’s commitment to direct and sustained dialogue between the two nations. He stressed the necessity of engaging in open discussions to address real differences and manage the relationship responsibly.
Shanghai’s Communist Party secretary, Chen Jining, emphasized the impact of cooperation or confrontation on the well-being of both nations and humanity’s future.
While China has not confirmed a meeting between Blinken and President Xi Jinping, the city of Shanghai holds significance in Chinese politics, having been a stepping stone for President Xi in the past.
Blinken’s visit to Shanghai, the first by a US secretary of state in 14 years, began with a casual dinner at a local restaurant, followed by attending a thrilling basketball playoff game.
