Biden Seeks to Mend Ties with China Amid International and Domestic Challenges
U.S. President Joe Biden is looking toward diplomatic efforts to mend the strained relations between the United States and China. With a key meeting between Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit on the cards, there is anticipation of progress on several fronts.
Biden’s Effort to Ease Tensions with China
According to Yang Mian, a professor at the Communication University of China, Biden is seeking to alleviate the “complicated situation” he faces by improving relations with China. The expert conveyed to Sputnik that the Biden Administration is cognizant of the fact that the policy of cutting ties with China would be counterproductive, impairing not only diplomatic relations but also impacting the U.S.’s own interests.
Challenges Confronting the Biden Administration
Two pressing international conflicts, the Russian-Ukrainian and Palestinian-Israeli situations, alongside the challenges presented by the upcoming elections, form the backdrop against which the U.S. is trying to enhance its relationship with China. Experts believe that the deterioration of Sino-U.S. relations may have detrimental effects on Washington’s ambitions, both on the electoral front and concerning its wider international interests.
A Year of Engagement Between U.S. and China
As per Yang Mian, U.S. officials have made several visits to China since early 2023. These diplomatic endeavors are seen as attempts to rekindle the bilateral relations disrupted during the pandemic and to reduce the tensions that have come to characterize the Sino-U.S. relationship in recent years. Both nations stand to gain from a thawing of relations, not only in diplomatic circles but also on the global stage.
Pragmatism Over Politics
Yang Mian underscores the potential for positive engagement if both countries approach their relationship pragmatically. Despite fundamental disputes, there is considerable scope for Sino-U.S. relations to improve if the two nations tackle emerging challenges with a practical mindset.
Global Hegemony and Competition
A core concern for the U.S. is China’s rapid ascent and its implications for global hegemony. The Asian country is acutely aware of this dynamic and is unlikely to weaken its strategic position, even while recognizing the mutual benefits of amicable relations.
Diplomatic Dialogues Are Back on Track
On the eve of the APEC summit, dialogues encompassing political, economic, financial, and climate issues have been reestablished between the two nations. The first talks on strategic arms control since 2019 have also been initiated, signaling a cautious yet potentially fruitful reengagement.
China and U.S. Leadership: Contest or Cooperation?
Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning addressed the essence of the two country’s relationships. Stating in a briefing on November 13 that while China does not shy away from competition, it does not wish for it to define their entire relationship. Ning also mentioned the leadership’s hope that the U.S. would steer clear of seeking a ‘new cold war’ or direct conflict with China.
Looking Ahead: The APEC Summit and Beyond
As global leaders anticipate the meeting between Biden and Xi Jinping, the world watches with bated breath to see if the two superpowers will set a precedent for cooperation over rivalry. The outcome of this engagement may well influence not only the immediate geopolitical climate but also the balance of international power in years to come.
Sputnik Mundo is your source for the latest updates on this developing story, with comprehensive analysis and opinion pieces on the complexities of Sino-U.S. relations.