China Warns US of 'Confrontation or Cooperation' Amid Blinken Visit

China has issued a warning to the US, stating that they must choose between "confrontation or cooperation" as Secretary of State Antony Blinken visits. Tensions are running high over US accusations that China is supporting Russia in Ukraine. Blinken is expected to deliver a message to China, warning of punitive steps unless they cease sending dual-use weapons-related technology to Russia. This visit comes as the US and China seek to improve strained relations, with President Biden and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping engaging in recent discussions. Additionally, the US Congress has approved a bill to ban TikTok if its Chinese owner does not sell it within 270 days. The Biden administration wants to show it can responsibly manage ties while still being firm with Beijing.

Key Takeaways

• China warned the US of the choice between "confrontation or co-operation" during Secretary of State Antony Blinken's recent visit.
• US concerns over China's alleged support to Russia's military industrial machine in Ukraine could lead to punitive actions by the US.
• The US Congress approved a bill to ban TikTok if its Chinese owner ByteDance does not sell it within 270 days.
• Tensions remain high over issues such as Taiwan, technology, and the South China Sea, with both sides seeking to stabilize relations before the US presidential election campaign.
• Both the US and China want to maintain open communication but the practical results seem limited, according to Zhao Minghao, professor and deputy director of the Center for American Studies at Fudan University.

Analysis

Tensions between the US and China have escalated due to US accusations of Chinese support to Russia in Ukraine. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit may prompt punitive measures if China continues to send dual-use technology to Russia. The US Congress has approved a bill to ban TikTok if its Chinese owner, ByteDance, fails to sell the platform within 270 days, adding further strain. Short-term consequences may include increased friction and potential trade restrictions. Long-term implications could lead to a deterioration of US-China relations, impacting global markets and tech firms with ties to China. Both nations seek stability, but practical outcomes remain limited.

Did You Know?

• Dual-use technology: Technology that can be used for both civilian and military purposes, leading to concerns about its potential contribution to military capabilities. In the context of the article, the US is accusing China of sending dual-use weapons-related technology to Russia, which raises tensions between the two countries.

• TikTok and ByteDance: TikTok is a popular social media app owned by the Chinese company ByteDance. The US Congress has approved a bill to ban TikTok if its Chinese owner does not sell it within 270 days, reflecting concerns about data privacy and national security issues associated with Chinese-owned technology platforms.

• Zhao Minghao: Professor and deputy director of the Center for American Studies at Fudan University, providing expertise and analysis on US-China relations from an academic and research perspective.