FM comments on China-US tech conflict: "Where there's blockade, there's breakthrough"

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi conducted a press conference on Friday during the third session of the 14th National People's Congress, where he addressed inquiries from journalists regarding China's foreign policy and international relations.

FM comments on China-US tech conflict: "Where there's blockade, there's breakthrough"
On Friday, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized that science and technology should not be utilized to create an "iron curtain," but rather should be considered a shared wealth that benefits everyone.

Addressing a question from a CN reporter regarding China-US technology relations on the sidelines of the third session of the 14th National People's Congress, Wang criticized the US strategy of implementing "high fences and small yards" to limit China's access to essential technologies. He asserted that such measures cannot hinder the spirit of innovation and cautioned that decoupling and disruptions in the supply chain would only lead to self-isolation.

Wang remarked on the ongoing "unjustified external suppression" against China in areas like space science and chip manufacturing, stating that despite these challenges, China's trajectory toward becoming a powerhouse in science and technology is continually expanding. "Where there is blockade, there is breakthrough; where there is suppression, there is innovation; where there is the fiercest storm, there is the platform launching China's science and technology skyward like the Chinese mythological hero Ne Zha soaring into the heavens," he said.

According to the 2025 government work report, China made significant strides in 2024 across various fields, including integrated circuits, artificial intelligence, and quantum technology. Noteworthy achievements included the Chang'e-6 mission, which successfully collected the first-ever samples from the far side of the moon, and the delivery and commissioning of the Mengxiang ocean drilling vessel. Furthermore, there was an 11.2 percent increase in the value of technology contract transactions.

Wang, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, reflected on the enduring commitment of generations of Chinese people to innovation.

Additionally, he stated that mutual respect serves as a fundamental norm guiding relations between states and is essential for stable China-US bilateral ties. He warned that no country should "fantasize" about being able to suppress China while expecting to maintain positive relations, as such contradictory actions would erode mutual trust and undermine long-term stability.

James del Carmen for TROIB News

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