President Joe Biden‘s national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, is set to go on a highly anticipated visit to China next week, aimed at revitalizing the complicated US-China relationship. As the final months of Biden’s presidency draw to a close, Sullivan’s three-day trip will focus on addressing various pressing issues of concern for the US, including China’s support for Russia’s military industrial complex, its assertive actions in the South China Sea, North Korea’s provocative behavior, and the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
The intense competition between the US and China has been a hallmark of their relationship, with both nations vying for global influence and seeking to promote their respective interests. China’s continued support for Russia’s military industrial complex has raised concerns in Washington about Beijing’s willingness to challenge US global leadership. Additionally, China’s assertive actions in the South China Sea have been a major source of tension between the two nations, with the US advocating for freedom of navigation and territorial integrity.
Meanwhile, North Korea’s provocative behavior has been a thorn in the side of both nations, with China often using its influence to try to calm the situation. The US, on the other hand, is concerned about China’s assertiveness in the region and its willingness to protect its interests at all costs. China, in turn, is likely to raise concerns about the US tariffs imposed on its goods, particularly electric vehicles, batteries, and medical equipment. The tariffs, which were imposed in May, are part of a broader trade war between the two nations and a significant point of contention.
US President Joe Biden (Via Joe Biden/Twitter)
Sullivan’s visit will also focus on cooperation with China on addressing the global threat of precursor chemicals used to make fentanyl. Both nations have been working together to combat the opioid epidemic, and the meeting will provide an opportunity to discuss ways to strengthen their collaboration. Furthermore, the trip is part of efforts to maintain a strategic channel of communication to responsibly manage the increasingly complex relationship between the two nations.
As the US and China go their separate ways, maintaining a delicate balance between competition and cooperation is crucial. The visit could potentially set the stage for another face-to-face meeting between Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping, which would be a significant step in reinforcing their relationship. The meeting takes on added significance given the upcoming presidential election in the US, with Democratic candidate Kamala Harris and Republican candidate Donald Trump both vowing to take a tough stance on China. Ultimately, Sullivan’s trip will serve as a critical test of the US-China relationship, demonstrating that even amidst intense rivalry, the two nations can find constructive ways to work together.
