According to Xinhua, Li said that the people of all countries hope the two nations can assume their responsibilities and safeguard global prosperity and stability.

The defense minister added that the right path for Washington and Beijing is to adopt the three principles of mutual respect, peaceful co-existence, and win-win cooperation.

The US State Department stated that Kissinger was in Beijing as a private citizen, not on behalf of the US government.

During the meeting, the US diplomat noted that his country and China should eliminate misunderstandings, coexist peacefully, and avoid confrontation.

Kissinger’s meeting with Li comes as John Kerry, the special presidential envoy for climate, is also in Beijing.

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