As US Secretary of State Antony Blinken prepares for his visit to China on April 24-26, the spotlight intensifies on the delicate relationship between the world’s two largest economies. While the United States and China find themselves at odds on various fronts, from trade to geopolitics, the necessity for cooperation is becoming increasingly evident.
Recent visits by Antony Blinken and other US officials to China signal Washington’s recognition that cooperation with Beijing is crucial for addressing both domestic and international challenges. However, the approach taken by the US towards China often falls short of mutual respect, with officials frequently using strong language and gestures to apply pressure.
Chinese observers have emphasized the importance of treating China as an equal partner in dialogue. A condescending attitude, they argue, undermines the potential for constructive cooperation. As Antony Blinken meets with senior Chinese officials in both Shanghai and Beijing, it is essential that the US adopts a more respectful and balanced approach in its communication.
The US State Department has outlined a broad agenda for Antony Blinken’s visit, covering a range of bilateral, regional, and global issues. Topics expected to be discussed include the Middle East, the war in Ukraine, the South China Sea, and the Taiwan Straits. Additionally, there will be talks on resuming counternarcotics cooperation, military-to-military communication, artificial intelligence, and strengthening people-to-people ties.
State Department spokesman Matthew Miller highlighted the importance of responsibly managing competition between the US and China, even in areas where disagreements exist. This sentiment reflects the need for a nuanced approach to the relationship, acknowledging both shared interests and areas of divergence.
Despite some stabilization in China-US relations following the meeting of the two heads of state in San Francisco last year, negative factors continue to accumulate. Lü Xiang, a research fellow at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, warns that Antony Blinken’s visit could widen differences and create further tensions.
One example cited by Lü is the upcoming joint military exercises between Filipino and US forces, which include simulations of sinking ships, widely interpreted as targeted at China. Furthermore, Antony Blinken is expected to urge Beijing to avoid provocative measures during the inauguration of Taiwan’s regional leader, Lai Ching-te.
As the US enters the presidential election season, the Biden administration is keen to demonstrate strength on the international stage. Despite domestic political challenges, officials are eager to show capability and resolve in dealing with global issues.
Blinken’s tactical goals for the visit appear to include launching a verbal offensive against China on various fronts, from the South China Sea to trade issues and the Taiwan question. Lü Xiang believes that China will respond resolutely to such propositions, particularly on issues deemed as core interests.
The recent approval by the US House of Representatives of billions of dollars in new military aid for Ukraine highlights the complexities of US foreign policy. Chinese experts criticize this move as reflective of the Biden administration’s inconsistent approach to foreign affairs.
The foreign aid package, which also includes military support for Israel and funding for allies in the Asia-Pacific, could further strain China-US relations. Experts suggest that Washington’s focus on obstructing China’s trade with Russia could lead to new struggles in defending China’s sovereignty in foreign trade.
Another area of contention between the US and China is the situation in the Middle East, particularly tensions between Iran and Israel. United States has repeatedly called on China to press Iran for restraint, while Biden has made it clear that the US will not participate in any offensive operations against Iran.
Blinken’s upcoming visit, coming as the US presidential election draws near, is seen by experts as an attempt to stabilize ties with China and avoid potential incidents that could negatively impact Biden’s election prospects.
US-China relationship is at a critical juncture, with both countries facing complex domestic and international challenges that require cooperation rather than confrontation. As Antony Blinken embarks on his visit to China, it is essential for the US to adopt a respectful and balanced approach in its dialogue with Beijing.
While disagreements will inevitably arise, mutual respect and understanding must form the foundation of US-China relations. Only through respectful dialogue and cooperation can the two countries hope to address the pressing issues of our time, from regional conflicts to global crises.
As Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian welcomed Blinken’s visit, it is hoped that both sides will seize this opportunity to engage in constructive dialogue and work towards building a more stable and cooperative relationship for the future.
