Blinken Urges Responsible Management of US-China Relations During Shanghai Visit

A First Visit to Shanghai

On his second visit to China in less than a year, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken began his trip in Shanghai on Wednesday. He attended a local basketball game and walked along the Bund promenade. During meetings with local leaders, Blinken emphasized the importance of direct dialogue to manage the significant differences between the two nations responsibly.

Engagements and Discussions on Cooperation

Blinken met with Chen Jining, the secretary of the Communist Party of China in Shanghai, discussing the critical role of American companies in the local economy and the broader implications of US-China relations on global well-being. He also visited New York University in Shanghai, encouraging educational exchanges and addressing the concerns of Chinese students in the US.

Addressing the Taiwanese Issue and Military Concerns

The Secretary of State is set to continue his discussions in Beijing, focusing on the sensitive topic of Taiwan, especially in light of the upcoming presidential inauguration in Taiwan on May 20. This follows the US Congress's approval of a substantial military aid package for allies, including Taipei, heightening the stakes of his diplomatic efforts.

Aiming to Ease Tensions and Improve Bilateral Relations

Blinken's visit aims to mitigate the recent tensions between the US and China, building on the positive momentum from his previous visit and subsequent meetings between Presidents Biden and Xi. These discussions have rekindled military cooperation and joint efforts against fentanyl production.

Persistent Tensions Over Trade Practices and International Security

In Beijing, Blinken plans to address American concerns over China's trade practices and its indirect support to Russia through dual-use technologies. These issues are pivotal for Biden in an election year and are compounded by new US legislation targeting Chinese tech firms like ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok.

(ANSA-AFP) - SHANGHAI, APRIL 25 - Secretary Blinken emphasized the necessity of responsible management in US-China relations, highlighting ongoing efforts for sustained dialogue and cooperation amidst global challenges.