US-China Relations: 'Hopeful' but 'Not Optimistic', Says US Ambassador
Despite rivalry, both nations are finding ways to stabilize the relationship, with recent progress in areas such as combating fentanyl and resuming military-to-military contacts.
- US Ambassador to China, Nicholas Burns, describes the US-China relationship as 'hopeful' and 'realistic', but not 'optimistic', citing the complex nature of the diplomatic relationship.
- Burns acknowledges that despite the rivalry, both nations are finding ways to stabilize the relationship, with recent progress in areas such as combating fentanyl and resuming military-to-military contacts.
- However, Burns notes that the Chinese government tends to shut down communication during bilateral disputes, making the duration of recent progress uncertain.
- Both US and Chinese ambassadors express a desire for better relations in 2024 during the 50th anniversary gala of the US-China Business Council.
- US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen outlines her 2024 US-China economic agenda, which includes stepping up bilateral exchanges and pressing China to share more information about its economic policies, but also maintaining a firm stance on areas of disagreement.
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POLITICO 
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South China Morning Post 
Washington Post 
Associated Press 
