Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to travel to China in the upcoming week in an effort to maintain a steady US-China relationship, despite concerns about China’s support for Russia. This visit will mark Blinken’s second trip to China as the top US diplomat, with his previous visit focused on stabilizing relations in the aftermath of heightened tensions between the two nations. President Joe Biden recently spoke with Chinese President Xi Jinping, signaling a positive shift in their relationship since their previous in-person summit.
A senior State Department official noted that the US-China relationship has improved significantly compared to a year ago when it was at a low point. Blinken’s visit to China will involve meetings with senior officials in Shanghai and Beijing from April 24-26. The primary objectives for this trip include making progress on key issues, addressing concerns on various global and regional matters, and managing competition between the two nations responsibly. Blinken plans to address China’s support for Russia’s defense industry, human rights violations, and unfair trade practices during his visit.
In addition to discussing China’s support for Russia, Blinken will also address other regional and global issues, including the situation in the Middle East and challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. The US has urged China to urge Iran to exercise restraint amid tensions with Israel, as well as addressing provocations in the South China Sea and North Korea’s threatening actions. Blinken will reaffirm the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait during his discussions with Chinese officials.
During Blinken’s previous trip to China in June, he met with top officials, including President Xi Jinping, to resume communication channels aimed at avoiding conflict between the US and China. He also had a candid and constructive conversation with top Chinese diplomat Wang Yi in July, addressing various issues that have strained the bilateral relationship, including Taiwan, China’s activities in the South China Sea, and human rights abuses. The meeting between Blinken and Chinese officials comes amidst global turbulence, including conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, as well as concerns about North Korea’s nuclear capabilities.
Overall, the upcoming trip by Secretary of State Antony Blinken to China reflects the Biden administration’s efforts to maintain a balanced relationship with China while addressing concerns about its support for Russia and other global issues. Blinken’s objectives during his visit focus on progress on key issues, communication of bilateral concerns, and responsible management of competition between the two nations. By addressing various regional and global challenges, including tensions in the Middle East and the Indo-Pacific region, Blinken aims to uphold peace and stability while reinforcing the importance of communication and dialogue between US and Chinese officials.
