learnedutoday
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has called for the United States and China to handle their differences “responsibly” as he embarks on a diplomatic charm offensive ahead of anticipated tough discussions.
Ahead of expected challenging talks with Beijing’s top officials regarding issues such as Russia, Taiwan, and trade, Blinken’s visit to Shanghai has been marked by efforts to engage with the local culture. He has sampled local cuisine, attended a basketball game, and taken a stroll along the iconic Bund promenade.
In a meeting with Shanghai’s local Communist Party leader, held against the backdrop of the city’s skyline, Blinken emphasized President Joe Biden’s commitment to fostering “direct and sustained” dialogue between the world’s two largest economies after years of escalating tensions.
Blinken stressed the importance of engaging directly, acknowledging and addressing differences between the two nations while working towards managing their relationship responsibly. He emphasized that both countries have an obligation to their people and to the world to handle their relationship with care.
Chen Jining, the Chinese Communist Party secretary for Shanghai, welcomed Blinken and underscored the significance of US businesses to the city’s economy. He emphasized that choices between cooperation and confrontation have far-reaching implications for both countries and for humanity’s future.
While Blinken’s agenda did not include a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, he engaged with students at New York University’s Shanghai campus, expressing hope for increased educational exchanges between the US and China. Blinken reassured that the US remains committed to welcoming Chinese students despite previous allegations of mistreatment at US airports.
Blinken’s visit to Shanghai, the first by a US secretary of state in 14 years, has featured softer diplomatic engagements, a departure from recent confrontational rhetoric. His approach contrasts with that of Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, who took a more abrasive tone during his recent visit to China.
During discussions in Beijing, Blinken is expected to address concerns about China’s relationship with Russia, particularly its export of industrial supplies amid the conflict in Ukraine. US officials believe that China, while focused on managing domestic economic challenges, is receptive to Western concerns but also frustrated by perceived US efforts to constrain its economy.
Amidst tensions, Blinken will encourage China to exercise restraint regarding Taiwan, especially as the island prepares to inaugurate a new president. While US-China tensions have eased in recent months, both countries remain vigilant, with Taiwan’s status remaining a sensitive issue in their relationship.
Haseeb Abdullah
