The United States and China are working to improve relations while recognizing that they are structural rivals and will continue to be in competition for years to come. Both countries are viewing each other through the lens of national security, especially in sectors such as technology and military influence in the Asia-Pacific region. The U.S. has maintained tariffs on China, accusing them of overcapacity in certain industries. The U.S. is also strengthening relations with allies in the region to counter China’s power.
Despite the competitive nature of the relationship, the Biden administration is seeking areas of cooperation with China on issues such as climate change and illicit drugs. Human rights concerns, such as those in Xinjiang, Tibet, and Hong Kong, remain a significant difference between the two countries. China denies rights abuses and claims to be neutral in conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine war, despite allegations of dual-use technology exports to Russia.
Efforts to promote people-to-people exchanges between the U.S. and China have faced obstacles from Chinese security services, hindering events and reducing the number of American students studying in China. U.S. businesses in China are also facing challenges due to geopolitical tensions. While the Biden administration acknowledges the threat China poses, they recognize that there are areas where interests overlap, making the relationship complex and challenging but also important.
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