In a significant move highlighting the strained relationship between the United States and China, U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan is set to make his inaugural visit to Beijing. This visit marks a notable shift from the frequent engagements seen during former National Security Advisor Susan Rice's tenure, where meetings with Chinese leaders, including President Xi Jinping, were more commonplace.
The deterioration of China-U.S. relations has been evident through the administrations of both Trump and Biden. President Joe Biden's handling of China's affairs began on a rocky note with Secretary of State Antony Blinken's challenging performance in Alaska, followed by the controversial \"spy balloon\" incident in early 2023. These events have constrained subsequent high-level interactions to primarily managing escalating tensions and preventing potential conflicts.
Despite the unglamorous nature of these diplomatic efforts, they are crucial for maintaining stability between the two global powers. The increasing internal political complexities within the U.S., particularly its focus on China, have led to a series of provocations that necessitate careful diplomatic navigation. China's approach has been characterized by resilience and patience, aiming to minimize friction without escalating tensions further.
Sullivan's visit, invited by Wang Yi, a high-ranking official within China's Communist Party, underscores the importance of dialogue in addressing key issues. The agenda for this visit remains modest, focusing on China's core concerns: the Taiwan region, China's development rights, and strategic security. On the U.S. side, discussions are expected to cover a broader range of topics, including technology-related national security policies, alleged Chinese support for Russia, the South China Sea, and cooperation on international conflicts such as the ongoing situation in Gaza.
While there have been talks of a potential meeting between President Xi and President Biden before Biden's term concludes next January, the current focus is on pragmatic engagement to manage differences and seek common ground where possible. Sullivan's visit represents a critical step in a complex diplomatic landscape, aiming to foster dialogue and reduce the risk of open conflict between the world's two largest economies.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
