Rubio described the meeting as “constructive” and that the two nations can learn to manage their differences while exploring areas of cooperation.

The two major powers vied to push their agendas in Asia at a time of simmering tension over a U.S. trade tariffs offensive.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio met his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi Friday on the sidelines of ASEAN talks in Malaysia, where Trump's tariffs are in sharp focus.