Washington: U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Friday spoke by phone with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, and underscored America's commitment to its regional allies and "serious concerns" over China's actions against Taiwan and in the South China Sea, the State Department said.

According to Yonhap News Agency, during the call with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, the secretary also emphasized the Trump administration's pursuit of a Sino-U.S. relationship that "advances U.S. interests and puts the American people first," as stated by Tammy Bruce, the department's spokesperson.

"The Secretary also stressed the United States' commitment to our allies in the region and serious concern over China's coercive actions against Taiwan and in the South China Sea," Bruce said in a readout.

Rubio was sworn in as America's chief diplomat on Tuesday following President Donald Trump's inauguration on Monday.