Blinken's visit to China: A chance for dialogue and cooperation
Zhang Shu
As a Chinese immigrant who has lived in the US for more than a decade, I have witnessed the ups and downs of the bilateral relationship between the two countries. I have also dedicated myself to promoting mutual understanding and cooperation between the two peoples, especially in the fields of culture, education and civil society.
That's why I was delighted to see that US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is visiting China this weekend, the first top American diplomat to do so in five years. His trip comes after the historic meeting between President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Bali, Indonesia, last November.
The Bali meeting was a positive step toward stabilizing what has become an increasingly fraught relationship, marked by mistrust and disputes over a range of issues, from trade and technology to human rights and Taiwan. Both leaders agreed to deepen constructive efforts to address common challenges such as climate change, health and food security. They also underscored their opposition to the use or threat of use of nuclear weapons in Ukraine, where Russia has invaded and occupied parts of its territory.
Blinken's visit is expected to follow up on the outcomes of the Bali meeting and explore areas of potential cooperation, as well as raise concerns where the two sides differ. He is scheduled to meet with Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang, China's top diplomat Wang Yi and possibly President Xi himself.
I hope that Blinken's visit will be an opportunity for dialogue and communication, rather than confrontation and accusation. I hope that he will listen to China's perspectives and interests, as well as convey America's values and principles. I hope that he will seek common ground while managing differences, rather than imposing sanctions or threats. I hope that he will foster trust and respect, rather than suspicion and hostility.
As a Chinese-American who loves both countries, I believe that the US and China have more to gain from cooperation than from competition. I believe that the two countries can coexist peacefully and prosper together, rather than engage in a new Cold War or a zero-sum game. I believe that the two countries can contribute to global peace and development, rather than undermine it.
I know that many challenges and difficulties lie ahead for Blinken's visit and for the future of US-China relations. But I also know that many opportunities and possibilities exist for dialogue and cooperation. I hope that both sides will seize this chance to put the relationship back on track and work together for the benefit of both peoples and the world.
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