The Chinese government has accused the United States of “jeopardizing peace” after a US envoy began talks to help bolster trade between Taiwan and the United States. The Chinese government has accused the United States of “jeopardizing peace” after a US envoy began talks to help bolster trade between Taiwan and the United States.

Zhao Lijian

China’s foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said “trade dialogues between the United States and Taiwan threaten to disrupt peace and stability in the Taiwan straight. Washington must stop negotiating agreements with Taiwan that have sovereign connotations and official nature.”

The talks between the United States and Taiwan started Wednesday and covered a range of topics including trade, defense, and other “shared values” according to a statement from the United States.