Donald Trump and Taiwanese president Tsai Ing-wen was "nothing more than a courtesy

call".

In several interviews on U.S. news outlets on Sunday, Pence described the call as one

of more than 50 that the president-elect has taken and made to world leaders.

The talks sparked public criticism as some said it could threaten ties between the U.S.

and China.

China has publicly downplayed the talks, calling it "a small trick by Taiwan".

Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi said Beijing hopes its political foundation with Washington

will not be damaged.