Wang Yi Tells US To Stop Interfering In Winter Games

China is demanding the United States end “interference” in the Beijing Winter Olympics, which begin next month, in an apparent reference to a diplomatic boycott imposed by Washington and its allies.

The Foreign Ministry in Beijing said Foreign Minister Wang Yi made the demand in a phone call with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

The US has said it will not send dignitaries to the Games, which begin on February 4. The boycott does not prevent US athletes from taking part in the Games.

According to a news release posted on the ministry’s website on Thursday, Wang also called for an end to US support for Taiwan.

Wang also complained that the US hasn't altered tough political and economic policies toward China under the administration of President Joe Biden, despite its expressed wishes for a less confrontational relationship.

The phone call follows the appointment of veteran diplomat Nicholas Burns as the new US ambassador to China, a position that had remained empty for a year. (AP)