Beijing talks tough again on US influence in region
Foreign Minister Wang Yi makes oblique reference in warning against regional provocation - the second caution in a week
Chinese diplomats have resorted to tough rhetoric against the United States for the second time in a week as they seek to cement ties with four Southeast Asian nations, in what analysts say is a sign that Beijing remains deeply suspicious of Washington.
The latest incident occurred when Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks with his Indonesian counterpart, Marty Natalegawa, in Jakarta on Thursday. They discussed territorial disputes in the South China Sea, which have seen China, Vietnam and the Philippines engage in bitter exchanges.
In Singapore yesterday, Wang told Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong that Beijing was ready to forge an "upgraded" relation with the country. Wang said the two sides should consider co-operating to build a regional financing platform, conduct defence and security exchanges, and co-ordinate in international and regional affairs, Xinhua reported.
Lee said Singapore was willing to help deepen the strategic partnership between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and China, according to Xinhua.
Wang told Marty on Thursday that China was committed to maintaining peace in the region, and settling disputes through bilateral negotiations with other claimant parties, which include Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan.
No single power or nation should be allowed to stir up troubles and provocations in the region for selfish gain
He added: "No single power or nation should be allowed to stir up troubles and provocations in the region for selfish gain."
