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China-US talks wrap up without territory resolution

CHINA and the United States ended their annual two-day high-level dialogue politely today, while remaining far apart on many regional issues.

The two sides promised closer co-operation over climate change on Wednesday, agreeing joint projects aimed at capturing and storing carbon and setting up more efficient power distribution networks. 

They also agreed to raise fuel efficiency standards for cars and trucks and to study gas use in industrial boilers.

However, when it came to a number of territorial disputes that China has with its neighbours, Washington was told bluntly to keep its beak out.

Chinese state councillor and former foreign minister Yang Jiechi urged the US not to take sides but to adopt a “just and objective position.”

US Secretary of State John Kerry claimed that Washington took no sides over whose claims were valid, but its reassurances to its Japanese and Filipino allies, as well as Vietnam, have not gone down well in Beijing.

Mr Yang reiterated yesterday that China was committed to its maritime claims and to solving disputes by talking to countries on a one-to-one basis.

There was also a difference in emphasis over how to deal with North Korea.

“We both understand that there’s more we can do in order to bring North Korea into compliance with its obligations to denuclearise,” said Mr Kerry.

Washington has long pushed for China to use its status as North Korea’s major ally and a crucial source of fuel and food to press Pyongyang to give up its nuclear capabilities.

Mr Yang responded that it was important to maintain restraint in dealing with North Korea, asserting that the two sides could do “more things to relax the situation.”

Mr Kerry also called for closer co-operation between the US and China over Iran’s nuclear programme and conflicts in Ukraine, Iraq and Syria.

He said that the two sides had had a “frank” exchange — diplomatic-speak for a row over cyberhacking. Beijing denies US claims that it encourages the practice.

Mr Yang urged mutual trust, declaring: “Cyberspace should not become a tool for damaging the interests of other countries.”

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