Overview

• Singapore's Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen proposed that both China and the United States could each appoint a special envoy to improve their bilateral relationship and manage ongoing tensions.
• Dr. Ng made this suggestion at a regional security forum in Beijing, where the strategic rivalry between China and the United States was a focal point of discussion.
• Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi recently traveled to the U.S., sparking discussions about a potential meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Joe Biden at the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit.
• Dr. Ng emphasized that both a strong U.S. and a strong China were needed in order to address global challenges effectively, and called for political commitment and work from both countries to improve relations.
• To achieve greater stability, Dr. Ng urged China to integrate its markets with the rest of the world, and assure nations that its growth isn't intended to supplant or replace existing powers. He further urged China to lead in reducing tensions in the region.