In a significant move, China has announced the suspension of arms control and non-proliferation consultations with the United States. The decision, declared by the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday, marks a tense escalation in Sino-American relations.
Lin Jian, a spokesperson for the ministry, attributed the suspension to actions from the U.S. side. \"The political atmosphere in which the two sides continue to engage in arms control consultations has been undermined by the U.S. side,\" Lin stated.
He further criticized the U.S. for disregarding China's strong opposition and repeated representations. Lin highlighted the continuation of arms sales to China's Taiwan region and a series of negative measures that, according to him, undermine China's core interests and erode mutual trust between the two nations.
Despite the suspension, China expressed a willingness to maintain communication on international arms control, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation. Lin urged the U.S. to respect China's core interests and create a conducive environment for dialogue and exchange.
Earlier in November 2023, China and the U.S. held consultations on arms control and non-proliferation in Washington, D.C., signaling a brief period of dialogue before the current suspension.
Reference(s):
China suspends arms control, non-proliferation consultations with U.S.
cgtn.com
