China’s top diplomat has warned that any attempt by the United States to “plot” on Taiwan could trigger a direct confrontation between the world’s two largest economies, escalating already fraught tensions over the self-ruled island.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi made the remarks during a speech at the Munich Security Conference on Saturday, saying Washington must avoid crossing what Beijing considers a red line on Taiwan.
“In the future, the United States could adopt a China policy that involves instigating and plotting to split China through Taiwan, crossing China’s red line,” Wang said. “This could very likely lead to a confrontation between China and the United States.”
Wang further noted that Beijing hopes Washington will pursue a “positive and pragmatic” approach in its dealings with China, but stressed that his country is “prepared to deal with various risks.”
China has sovereignty over Taiwan, and under the “One China” policy, almost all countries recognize that sovereignty. The US, too, recognizes the Chinese sovereignty over the island but has long courted Taiwan in an attempt to unnerve Beijing.
The United States has long been Taiwan’s most important international supporter and largest arms supplier. While Washington does not formally recognize Taiwan as an independent state, it maintains robust unofficial ties and is widely seen as a critical factor in any potential conflict across the Taiwan Strait.
Tensions between Beijing and Washington have intensified in recent years amid increased US arms sales to Taiwan, high-level visits by American officials, and stepped-up Chinese military activity near the island.
Wang’s remarks come as Taiwan remains one of the most sensitive and potentially explosive flashpoints in US–China relations.
Elsewhere in his remarks, Wang also addressed strained relations between China and Japan, which have deteriorated since Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi took office in October.
“The Japanese people should no longer allow themselves to be manipulated or deceived by those far-right forces, or by those who seek to revive militarism,” Wang said.
He added that “all peace-loving countries should send a clear warning to Japan,” cautioning that any return to militarism would lead the country “toward self-destruction.”
Beijing and Tokyo have faced growing friction over security issues, historical grievances, and regional military posture, further complicating the geopolitical landscape in East Asia.