Xie Feng, the new Chinese ambassador to the United States, has stressed the importance of the relationship between the two countries and expressed his commitment to upholding the principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation. Speaking to Chinese and US media in Washington, D.C., shortly after his arrival in the US, Xie acknowledged that his appointment comes at “a critical moment” for US-China relations. He urged the US to work with China to enhance dialogue, manage differences, and promote cooperation to put the relationship back on track.
Xie emphasised that a sound and stable relationship between China and the US is not only in the interest of both countries but is also a shared expectation of the international community and a major contribution to world peace and prosperity. The ambassador noted that although the two nations face “serious difficulties and challenges”, they have always been able to move the relationship ahead. Xie stated that “the relationship is too important for us to let it fail,” and called on both sides to take concrete actions to deliver on the common understandings between President Xi Jinping and President Joe Biden.
Xie’s message echoed what he had said earlier upon arriving at John F. Kennedy International Airport, where he urged Washington to work with China to enhance dialogue. He emphasised that he had come to the US as a representative of the Chinese people to safeguard China’s interests and carry out his mission with diligence and fortitude.
The new ambassador is seen as a veteran diplomat and US expert, having previously worked at the Chinese Embassy in the US from 2008 to 2010. Xie last served as China’s consul general in Los Angeles before his appointment as ambassador to the US. Recalling his last post in Washington, Xie said upon his arrival at the airport that the world as well as the US had undergone great changes. He expressed his hope to engage with the American people from all walks of life, observe and learn about the country at a close distance, and explore ways to deepen exchanges and cooperation.
Xie also sent separate letters to the Chinese community and the Chinese students in the US upon his arrival. In the letters, Xie extended his greetings and best wishes, emphasising the importance of their support and contribution to bilateral ties. Xie praised the Chinese community in the US as a bridge that connects the two countries and encouraged Chinese students to “present a true China” to their American friends. He expressed his pride in their fortitude and perseverance, calling on them to work together to contribute to China-US relations with insights, actions, courage, and grit.
As the world watches, Xie’s commitment to upholding the principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation, along with his emphasis on the importance of a sound and stable relationship between China and the US, signals hope for renewed dialogue and cooperation between the two superpowers.
