HIROSHIMA: US President Joe Biden expressed optimism on Sunday that the strained ties between the United States (US) and China would soon experience a thaw, following a recent incident involving the shooting down of a suspected Chinese spy balloon by the US.
Biden acknowledged that the relationship had deteriorated since his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the G20 leaders summit in Bali last November.
The diplomatic rift between the world’s two largest economies was triggered by the US decision in February to shoot down an alleged Chinese spy balloon that had flown over US territory. This incident led to the cancellation of Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s planned visit to Beijing, which was intended to improve bilateral relations.
During a press conference held after the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan, Biden was questioned about the absence of an operational hotline between the US and China. He responded, “You’re right, we should have an open hotline. At the Bali conference, President Xi and I agreed that we were going to establish one and have regular meetings.
Strained relations between US and China
However, everything changed when this balloon, carrying extensive spying equipment equivalent to two freight cars, was shot down while flying over the United States. I believe you will see a positive change and a thaw in our relations very shortly.”
In addition to the spy balloon incident, Biden’s administration has further strained relations by targeting trade in advanced microchips due to concerns over their potential military use. The president defended these actions in light of the recent statement from the Group of Seven (G7) leading economies, which warned China about its “militarization activities” in the region.
Biden emphasized, “China is increasing its military capabilities, which is why I have made it clear that I am not willing to engage in certain trade exchanges involving specific items with China. We have obtained commitments from all our allies that they will refrain from such trade as well. However, this is not a hostile act; it is an effort to make sure that we do everything possible to maintain the present state of affairs.”
The president’s remarks indicate his desire to mend relations with China, despite recent tensions. Biden’s administration aims to establish an open hotline and resume constructive dialogue with the Chinese government, emphasizing the need for maintaining stability and cooperation between the two nations.
As the world closely watches for signs of a thaw in US-China relations, it remains to be seen how the two countries will navigate their differences and find common ground to address shared global challenges while managing their strategic competition.
