BEIJING: In a bid to defuse tensions and open channels of communication between the United States and China, US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo is scheduled to visit China next week. This visit follows a series of diplomatic engagements involving high-ranking officials from both nations, who seek to address a range of disagreements spanning trade, human rights, technology, and more.
The US Department of Commerce announced Raimondo’s visit, stating that she anticipates constructive dialogues concerning the US-China commercial relationship, challenges confronted by American businesses, and potential avenues for collaboration. The visit is set to take place from August 27 to 30, with Raimondo visiting both Beijing and Shanghai.
China has also confirmed Raimondo’s visit and noted that she was extended an invitation by her Chinese counterpart, Wang Wentao. The visit is intended to build upon an agreement between Presidents Xi Jinping and Joe Biden reached in Bali last year, aimed at enhancing communication between the two nations on various fronts.
The relations between the US and China have encountered significant strains in recent years, with issues such as trade restrictions, human rights concerns, and the Taiwan question serving as prominent points of contention. The US asserts that its trade measures are vital for safeguarding national security, while Beijing views them as detrimental to its economic growth.
US Investments in High-Tech Sectors within China
Earlier this month, President Biden issued an executive order to limit certain American investments in sensitive high-tech sectors within China, a move that Beijing criticized as “anti-globalization.” The anticipated regulations, set to take effect in the coming year, are focused on areas like semiconductors and artificial intelligence.
Efforts to foster a more stable relationship have led to diplomatic visits by prominent US officials. US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen visited Beijing last month to engage Chinese officials, reassuring them of the forthcoming restrictions and emphasizing the importance of transparent implementation. Yellen also discussed the necessity of fair economic competition and cooperation on addressing climate change concerns.
Notably, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s visit to Beijing in June resulted in some progress on key points of contention, although no major breakthroughs were achieved. President Biden, looking forward, has expressed his intention to meet with Chinese leader Xi Jinping both in San Francisco during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum summit in November and potentially in New Delhi next month on the sidelines of the Group of 20 summit.
