US-China Diplomatic Discussions Behind the Scenes
Despite the Biden administration's recent stern stance on China, labeling it a 'strategic competitor', both nations have been engaging in private discussions with the goal of stabilizing relations. This is to ensure that the antagonism of recent years does not escalate into conflict.
US national security adviser Jake Sullivan is set to meet with his Chinese counterpart, senior foreign policy official Wang Yi, in Beijing over a two-day period starting Tuesday. Sullivan stated to Wang ahead of the talks that President Biden is committed to responsibly managing this crucial relationship. This marks the first visit to China by a sitting US national security advisor in eight years (since 2016).
Sullivan's Visit and Goals
Sullivan's visit to the outskirts of Beijing, where the meetings are taking place, will last until Thursday. However, little is expected to be revealed or published following the talks. The primary objective is to restore positive and more frequent communications, which have been largely absent throughout 2022-2023.
Wang has expressed the need to maintain mutual respect, peaceful co-existence, and win-win cooperation. He described recent China-US ties as "critical", but acknowledged that the relationship has recently experienced "twists and turns".
China's Concerns and Agenda
China's foreign affairs ministry, in a separate statement, said that China will focus on expressing serious concerns, clarifying its solemn position, and making serious demands on issues such as Taiwan, the right to development, and China's strategic security.
The agenda also includes the expansion and normalization of military-to-military talks to avoid confrontation in areas like the South China Sea. Discussions will also focus on de-confliction efforts in the Taiwan Strait and Washington's desire for China to curb the development and distribution of chemicals that can be converted into fentanyl.
A key point on Beijing's agenda will be US tariffs, particularly those targeting Chinese chip makers. The Chinese foreign ministry statement highlighted that the United States' continuous unreasonable measures against China in terms of tariffs, export controls, investment reviews, and unilateral sanctions have seriously undermined China's legitimate rights and interests.
Behind the Scenes Discussions
A recent investigative report by the Financial Times revealed that Sullivan and Wang had been conducting discreet 'cloak and dagger' summits around the world to stabilize relations. This has reportedly been ongoing since 2023, following the Chinese spy balloon incident over the American east coast.
Bottom Line
The recent series of discreet discussions between the US and China, leading up to Sullivan's visit to Beijing, highlights the complexity and significance of the relationship between the two nations. It's clear that both sides are keen to manage this relationship responsibly and avoid escalating tensions. What are your thoughts on these behind-the-scenes talks and their potential impact on US-China relations? Feel free to share this article with your friends. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, available every day at 6pm.
