U.S. says senior Chinese diplomat Wang Yi's comments fit pattern of Beijing seeking to avert blame

U.S. State Department spokesman Ned Price said on Monday that recent remarks by senior Chinese diplomat Wang Yi reflect a continued pattern of Beijing seeking to avert blame for its actions.

Price made the comment at a regular press briefing.

Wang, a Chinese state councillor and foreign minister, earlier on Monday said China was ready to reopen dialogue with the United States but urged Washington to respect China's core interests and stop "smearing" the ruling Communist Party.