United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken remarked on Friday that the presence of China's surveillance balloon in American airspace represents an "irresponsible act," confirming he has canceled plans to travel to China following the incident.

"The Secretary noted the PRC's statement of regret but conveyed that this is an irresponsible act and a clear violation of U.S. sovereignty and international law that undermined the purpose of the trip. The Secretary explained that in light of this ongoing issue, it would not be appropriate to visit Beijing at this time," Blinken's statement noted.

The State Department issued the release following Blinken's call with China's Central Foreign Affairs Office Director Wang Yi earlier today.