Recent interactions between China and the US have become instrumental in managing the multifaceted dynamics of their bilateral relations. These engagements, evident from the various high-level meetings, are viewed positively by analysts who opine that the US needs to invest further efforts to foster an amicable ambiance for elevated discussions.
Following a recent engagement, the Chinese Foreign Ministry released a statement detailing the meeting between Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong of China and US Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, Daniel Kritenbrink, which took place in Washington. The two senior diplomats conducted an in-depth, transparent, and constructive dialogue on the nuances of China-US ties, the Asia-Pacific scenario, their distinct regional policies, and international matters of mutual interest.
A focal point of the meeting was China’s stance on the Taiwan issue. Sun Weidong outlined China’s viewpoint, underscoring the one-China principle as pivotal for peace and stability across the Taiwan Straits. Additionally, Sun expressed China’s reservations about the US’ “Indo-Pacific Strategy” and its stance on the South China Sea.
Sun accentuated that fostering positive interactions between China and the US, especially in the Asia-Pacific region, not only serves the shared interests of both nations but also aligns with the aspirations of neighboring countries. Both parties concurred on maintaining communication concerning Asia-Pacific affairs, as echoed by the official release from the Chinese side.
Parallelly, the US Department of State acknowledged the sincerity and depth of the consultations. Their release emphasized the criticality of keeping communication channels open, not just on collaborative aspects but also on areas of disagreement.
This latest interaction between Sun and Kritenbrink is part of a series of engagements, emphasizing the increasing dialogue between China and the US. Other notable meetings include the deliberations between Chinese Vice President Han Zheng and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in New York and the dialogue between Chinese Foreign Affairs Minister Wang Yi and US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan in Malta.
Interestingly, a recent report from The Wall Street Journal hinted at a potential visit by China’s top diplomat, Wang Yi, to Washington in October. Rumors also suggest discussions regarding a visit by Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng to the US. Nevertheless, no official confirmation regarding these trips has been announced by China at the time of the press release.
According to Li Haidong, a professor at the Institute of International Relations at the China Foreign Affairs University, the increasing frequency and significance of these interactions between China and the US can foster better communication. This, in turn, can be pivotal in managing disputes and navigating the intricacies of their bilateral ties.
Li also highlighted that apart from these high-level meetings, the US has shown commendable diplomacy towards China. An example of this was the appreciation extended by US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, thanking China for facilitating the exit of detained US soldier Travis King from North Korea via Chinese territory.
The positive undertones of these interactions resonate with China’s emphasis on mutual respect and cooperative success, as Li pointed out.
There’s a palpable anticipation among US media regarding a potential China-US summit. Many speculate that this might occur on the sidelines of the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting scheduled for November in San Francisco. Some believe that the recent series of interactions might be a prelude to this high-profile meeting.
However, Li opined that while the chances for a higher-tier meeting are conceivable, the volume of unresolved issues between China and the US cannot be ignored. He believes that the US should proactively adopt measures to cultivate an environment conducive for a summit between the top leaders.
However, some observers have expressed concerns, noting that the US’s recent actions might not align with their diplomatic expressions. For instance, there are perceived challenges in bilateral ties, particularly concerning Taiwan, the South China Sea, and unilateral US sanctions on Chinese corporations.
A recent move by the US further fuels these apprehensions. The US gave a nod for a possible sale of infrared search and track systems for F-16 jets to Taiwan, seemingly to counterbalance the J-20 stealth fighter jets of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army. In response, China urged the US to revoke this arms sale initiative immediately.
Concluding, Li emphasized the age-old wisdom that actions resonate louder than words. The onus, he believes, is on the Biden administration to demonstrate genuine intent in ameliorating relations with China, especially given the rising anti-China sentiment in the US tied to its foreign policies concerning China.
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