Despite recent attempts at fostering détente in the US-China relationship, a myriad of challenges remain. The visit of US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo to China brought a semblance of peace, yet from the White House to Congress, tensions over Taiwan and a proposed G20 meeting have been on the rise.
The Flickering Flame of Détente:
The US Commerce Secretary’s four-day trip to China concluded as “successful and productive”. Raimondo’s visit bore fruit, establishing new channels of communication aimed at resolving specific business concerns and bolstering mutual enterprise cooperation. This is indicative of a shifting attitude from merely transactional relations to a more dialogue-centric approach.
Moreover, China’s Ministry of National Defense verified talks between senior military officials of both nations in Fiji, marking the first face-to-face exchange this year. This symbolizes a growing desire for military diplomacy.
Taiwan: The Perennial Thorn
Yet, in the midst of these advancements, the Biden administration greenlit an $80 million military transfer to Taiwan under the “Foreign Military Financing” scheme, generally reserved for sovereign states. This move garnered immediate backlash. Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, voiced strong opposition, underscoring China’s unwavering stance on national sovereignty.
G20 Summit: A Dance of Diplomacy
Simultaneously, media outlets are rife with speculation about the G20 summit. NBC quoted officials stating that President Biden has no intentions of a formal meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, due to uncertainties regarding Xi’s attendance. In response, China’s Foreign Ministry Spokesperson, Wang Wenbin, assured that timely updates would be given.
A Period of Easing Tensions:
Post the visit of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to China in June, there was a noticeable softening in bilateral ties. Lü Xiang, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, perceives Raimondo’s trip as evidence of this thawing. However, he also points out the lack of substantial measures from the US side to nurture this budding détente.
Li Haidong, a professor at China Foreign Affairs University, echoed these concerns. The US’s stance on Taiwan continues to strain relations. Li emphasizes China’s commitment to a peaceful, stable international community. He predicts that the second half of 2023 will witness increased high-level interactions between the two nations, especially during the G20 and APEC summits. But with the US presidential elections looming in 2024, uncertainties loom large.
The US’s Policy Paradox:
Raimondo’s call to US businesses to amplify investments in China, contrasted with her prior skepticism of China’s investability, depicts a policy contradiction. Moreover, her audacious announcement of a working group on commercial issues has met both praise and resistance.
Rob Wittman, vice chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, further added to the policy conundrum with his recent visit to Taiwan. He assured the US’s support if Taiwan were attacked and emphasized the commitment to resolving the pending $19 billion US arm sales.
Li Haidong delves into the heart of this paradox, attributing it to the disorganized state of US politics. He laments the prevailing confrontational approach over beneficial cooperative endeavors. “Without cooperation with Beijing, Washington’s foreign policy becomes redundant,” Li argues.
While China is perceived as a strategic competitor by the US, Li believes it’s imperative for both nations to rise above rivalries. A confrontational mindset not only tarnishes the relationship but also hinders any progress.
The Need for a Balanced Approach:
The Biden administration, Lü argues, must muster the courage to take tangible steps towards enhancing relations with China. While the US has its share of China skeptics, allowing them to dictate foreign policy would be detrimental. Lü cites the phase-one trade agreement between the Trump administration and China in 2020 as an example of diplomacy even during strained ties.
In conclusion, experts advocate for a balanced US-China relationship. A careful blend of cooperation and competition can be beneficial for both. The hope is for the Biden administration to act pragmatically, benefiting both nations and salvaging its own global reputation.
Read More: