On US-China Relations – Building the floor

Source: This post on US-China Relations has been created based on the article “Building the floor” published in The Hindu on 18^th November 2023.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2 International Relations – Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests.

News: This article discusses the main outcomes of the recent US-China Summit. It also highlights future concerns in the relationship as well as the lesson it holds for the India-China relationship.

Read more about the recent US-China Summit and its Impact on India here.

What are the main takeaways from the recent US-China Summit?

1. Stabilised US-China Relations: It has offered the promise of stabilising a relationship that has recently been declining rapidly leading to a growing concern in the world.
2. Signing of Concrete Agreements: Agreements, including the restart of military-to-military direct dialogue and regarding issues involved with artificial intelligence, were signed.
3. Established a Solid Ground: There is cautious optimism that this attempt at stabilisation has been built on more solid ground.
4. Realisation of the Importance of Direct Engagement: Both countries have realised that high-level engagement and open channels are key to prevent competition from sliding into conflict.

What are the upcoming concerns regarding US-China relations?

1. Taiwan Elections: On Taiwan, China has cautioned against interference, and the U.S. has said it is opposed to any change in the status quo.
2. USA Elections: US election campaigns inevitably lead to heated arguments against China.
3. Differing Perspectives on Future Relations: China has criticised USA’s framing of the relationship as being fundamentally competitive and has asked it to refrain from crossing the line on issues including Taiwan and export controls.

What is the lesson for India?

This Summit offers clear lessons for the India-China relationship, that engaging in dialogue is not a concession and can be crucial to building a solid ground for the ties.

Question for practice:

The dynamics of bilateral ties between USA and China will have an important impact on the world in general, and India in particular. Explain.