Rubio Expects Xi's US Visit To Be 'Very Positive'

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Washington DC: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said he expects Chinese President Xi Jinping's anticipated visit to Washington to be "very positive," expressing confidence that continued dialogue can help stabilise relations between the world's two largest economies.

Rubio made the remarks after meeting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on the sidelines of the ASEAN foreign ministers' gathering in Manila. Although the visit has not yet been officially confirmed, Rubio said he believes it will take place in September and described the discussions with Wang as important groundwork for a productive summit. He acknowledged that significant differences remain but stressed both countries must ensure they never spiral out of control.

The meeting came only days after the United States criticised China's actions in the South China Sea and amid recent US accusations of Chinese interference in American elections. Rubio said those election allegations were not discussed during his talks with Wang.

Both officials were attending ASEAN meetings in Manila, where regional security and maritime tensions remained key topics of discussion.