China and US at thorny talks

Commenting on the opening day, the Chinese delegation complained that the US delegation launched unjustified attacks, accusations against the country's internal and external policies, and prolonged statements to media for too long.

However, Yang Jiechi, head of the mission and director of the Foreign Affairs department of the Communist Party of China, insisted that both powers handle their differences in moderation, prioritize cooperation and end the conflict, as it is harmful at the bilateral and international level.

The two countries, he added, must take responsibilities with peace, stability and development of the planet and, therefore, the United States must abandon extraterritorial sanctions, stop abusing national security and obstructing commercial ties.

Meanwhile, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi deplored and considered a sign of weakness the imposition of US sanctions on 24 Chinese officials just one day before the talks in Anchorage, Alaska.

Wang Yi arrived in Alaska to attend the bilateral meeting after the alliances among Washington, Japan, South Korea with Beijing on the spotlight were reviewed, while US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin visits India with a similar purpose.

The Alaska meeting will close on Friday and joint agreements or statements are not expected.