Biden Sees Coming ‘Thaw’ With China, Even as He Rallies Allies Against Beijing
NY Times
23-05-22 18:28
President Biden's prediction of a "thaw" in relations with Beijing after what he called the "silly" act of China sending a giant surveillance balloon over the United States has been overshadowed by US plans to support Ukraine with new arms packages, including an avenue to provide F-16 fighter planes. President Biden sees a struggle in China between factions that want to restart the economic relationship with the United States and a far more powerful group that aligns with the country's emphasis on national security over economic growth. Though the G7 have assured China that they are not trying to contain the country, a string of diplomatic wins for the US and losses for China has created a tighter nuclear alliance between the US, Japan, and now South Korea in Beijing's neighbourhood. In response, China accused the G7 of "vilifying and attacking China" and "crudely meddling in China’s domestic affairs."
Administration officials hope that a more regular dialogue with China will eventually be established, although the war in Ukraine will continue to shadow the relationship and the course of the relationship between Moscow and Beijing. Analysts have predicted that while the US’s de-risking strategy may seem like risk reduction for the US and Europe, it could be perceived as nicely worded containment strategy in Beijing.