US and China Relations Tracker

In an interconnected world where geopolitical intricacies are ever-changing, the relations between the United States and China hold a pivotal place. With escalating tensions and intricate trade networks, understanding the dynamic between these superpowers is crucial to global stability. This narrative gains further depth when considering the Middle East's role in this equation.

Condoleezza Rice, the director of the Hoover Institution at Stanford University, emphasizes the significance of global engagement in her new essay in Foreign Affairs. Rice articulates a persuasive argument against American isolationism, underscoring the interconnectedness of geopolitical issues and the importance of maintaining active international relationships. Her advocacy for continued engagement is particularly pertinent when examining the nuanced dynamics between the US, China, and the broader Middle Eastern region.

The US and China have intricate trade relations, which are foundational to their economic interactions. These relationships have been marked by competition and collaboration in equal measure. Trade disputes have often escalated into broader economic tensions, but the essential interdependence remains undeniable. For instance, the US relies on China for manufacturing and supply chain efficiencies, while China looks to the US for innovation and technology.

The Middle East further complicates this relationship. It acts as an influential player with its vast energy resources and strategic regional significance. For the US, maintaining a strong foothold in the Middle East is a counterbalance to China's expansive Belt and Road Initiative, which aims to create a modern Silk Road, weaving through many critical nodes of global trade, including the Middle East. Beijing's active engagement in the region, from infrastructure investments to securing energy resources, signifies its intent to expand influence, creating a competitive landscape with the US.

Rice’s arguments are a pertinent reminder that US foreign policy must not withdraw into isolationism but rather adapt and evolve with global shifts. The presence of American diplomacy and influence in regions such as the Middle East is indispensable for countering Chinese aspirations and fostering a balanced global power structure.

Moreover, Rice highlights the broader implications of isolationism, arguing that retreating from the global stage would cede strategic advantages to competitors. This is evident in the technological race between the US and China, where leadership in areas such as 5G and artificial intelligence is seen as critical for future global dominance. A retreat could handicap American enterprises and alter the international landscape adversely.

In conclusion, amidst the complex web of international relations, the interplay between the US, China, and the Middle East showcases a world where isolationism could lead to declines in influence and strategic positioning. Condoleezza Rice's advocacy for sustained engagement emphasizes that global leadership and strategic partnerships are indispensable in navigating the challenges of the 21st century. Amidst these dynamics, the US must continue to engage constructively and assertively to maintain equilibrium in global relations.

In the intricate landscape of U.S.-China relations, the so-called "China Card" has often been a pivotal element in American presidential elections. Historically, candidates leverage U.S.-China dynamics to appeal to voters, emphasizing issues from trade practices and human rights to technological competition and geopolitical strategies. However, in the current election cycle, this strategy appears increasingly ineffective. Understanding this shift requires exploring several critical facets of the evolving bilateral relationship and domestic political environment.

To begin with, for the "China Card" to resonate, the sitting president must grapple with substantial setbacks in U.S-China relations. Recent years have indeed been tumultuous, marked by trade wars, cybersecurity concerns, and competing influences in the Indo-Pacific region. Nevertheless, these conflicts have become a constant backdrop, somewhat diminishing their shock value and impact on the electorate. As trade tensions and debates over intellectual property rights become entrenched issues, they lose their novelty, reducing their effectiveness as potent campaign points.

Simultaneously, the opposition party, usually poised to capitalize on any diplomatic missteps, must see clear and present advantages in focusing on China-related criticism. However, this election's unique domestic context dilutes the emphasis on foreign policy. The United States faces pressing internal challenges, including economic recovery post-pandemic, systemic racial injustices, and nationwide debates over healthcare and immigration. These urgent matters often overshadow international concerns, as voters prioritize immediate, tangible impacts on their daily lives over complex foreign policy strategies.

Additionally, bipartisan consensus on the threat posed by China further complicates the use of the "China Card." Both Democrats and Republicans acknowledge China's economic and strategic challenges, leading to a convergence of views that blurs partisan lines. When both parties adopt similar stances on China, it becomes difficult to distinguish one candidate's approach as superior or more resolute, rendering the "China Card" an ineffective tool for gaining a competitive edge.

Moreover, rapid globalization and interconnected economies necessitate a nuanced portrayal of U.S.-China relations. Simplistic narratives fail to capture the complexities of trade dependencies, technological alliances, and diplomatic engagements that define modern geopolitics. Voters increasingly recognize these subtleties, demanding sophisticated discussions over reductive rhetoric. As such, candidates focusing on nuanced policy proposals rather than broad-brushed accusations find greater traction with an informed electorate that values depth and practicality.

The role of China in the global supply chain, particularly highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic, also demonstrates the indispensability of cooperative engagement. The pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in supply chains, prompting calls for more resilient infrastructures, which involves cautious recalibration rather than outright decoupling from China. Voters understand that preserving economic stability requires strategic collaboration, further diminishing the appeal of aggressive posturing.

In summary, the diminishing effectiveness of the "China Card" in the current U.S. election highlights a multifaceted interplay of entrenched bilateral issues, pressing domestic priorities, bipartisan agreement, and the electorate's sophisticated understanding of international relations. As candidates navigate this complex terrain, their success increasingly hinges on addressing immediate voter concerns with pragmatic and forward-thinking policies rather than relying on traditional foreign policy gambits.

The United States recently returned 297 smuggled artifacts to India during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit. This significant gesture has not only underscored the cultural affinities between the two nations but also marked a notable step forward in their diplomatic relationship. The exchange highlighted a mutual respect and dedication to protecting and preserving cultural heritage, amidst a global backdrop where international cooperation is increasingly critical.

This move came as a powerful symbol of goodwill and mutual respect. The artifacts, which ranged from religious sculptures to historical relics, had been illegally trafficked out of India over the years. Their return was the culmination of extensive collaborative efforts between American and Indian authorities. This cooperation involved intricate investigations and a robust diplomatic dialogue, all aimed at restoring these cultural treasures to their rightful home.

The significance of this exchange extends beyond cultural heritage. It serves as a potent diplomatic tool, strengthening bilateral ties between the US and India. In recent years, the two countries have sought to deepen their strategic partnership across multiple domains, including defense, trade, and technology. The return of these artifacts has added another layer of collaboration, emphasizing shared values and mutual respect.

This event also aligns with the broader trend of cultural diplomacy. Recognizing the importance of heritage in global relations, countries are increasingly using cultural exchanges to foster goodwill and enhance diplomatic ties. For India and the US, this initiative echoes similar efforts worldwide, where cultural artifacts serve as ambassadors of history and tradition, promoting understanding and cooperation between nations.

For India, these artifacts are more than just objects; they are a testament to the country's rich history and diverse cultural legacy. For the US, the return signifies a commitment to ethical stewardship and respect for international norms. As the world’s two largest democracies, the US and India have demonstrated through this act that addressing historical injustices can pave the way for stronger, more equitable partnerships.

This gesture of returning the artifacts is a clear message to the international community about the importance of cultural integrity and cross-border cooperation. It sets a precedent for future collaborations and underscores the role of cultural diplomacy in fostering global unity and respect.

In parallel, US and China relations present another dimension of international diplomacy. The US has been navigating a complex relationship with China, marked by competition and cooperation across various sectors, including trade, technology, and geopolitics. While tensions have occasionally flared, there have also been moments of constructive engagement, particularly in areas like climate change and commerce.

Comparatively, the cultural exchange between the US and India stands as a testament to how cultural diplomacy can influence and enhance bilateral relations. Unlike the multifaceted and often contentious relationship with China, the cultural gesture towards India exemplifies how shared respect for cultural heritage can build bridges of trust and cooperation.

In conclusion, the return of 297 artifacts to India by the United States represents more than a diplomatic gesture; it is an embodiment of shared values and mutual respect. It demonstrates how cultural diplomacy can play a pivotal role in strengthening international relations. As the US continues to navigate its relationships with global powers like China, such acts of cultural solidarity with India highlight a path forward—where heritage and history are respected, and global cooperation is enhanced.

US President Joe Biden, addressing his Quad summit partners recently, made headlines with his unequivocal statement that China's aggressive tactics are a test for them. This assertion underscores the increasing tension and complexity in the US-China relationship, a series of interactions marked by strategic competition, economic entanglement, and occasional cooperation.

The Quad—a strategic forum comprising the US, Japan, Australia, and India—has been a focal point of these discussions. Formed amid escalating concerns about China's growing assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region, the alliance seeks to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific, counterbalancing China's expansive territorial and maritime claims.

Biden's comments reflect a broader narrative of scrutiny and strategic reassessment that the US is undertaking. Relations between the two superpowers have become particularly strained over issues like trade imbalances, intellectual property theft, and human rights violations in Xinjiang. Recently, the contest has expanded to technological supremacy, with both nations vying to dominate areas like artificial intelligence, 5G networks, and quantum computing.

However, the US-China relationship is not merely contentious. There is a significant aspect of economic interdependence that complicates outright rivalry. As the world's two largest economies, they are deeply intertwined in terms of trade and investment. Bilateral trade between the US and China surpassed $600 billion in recent years, indicating that despite political frictions, economic pragmatism continues to bind both nations together.

Climate change also presents an area of potential cooperation. As the two largest carbon emitters, the US and China find themselves in a unique position to influence global efforts to combat climate change. The Biden administration has expressed interest in working with China on this front, recognizing that meaningful progress in reducing global emissions requires collaboration.

Elsewhere, the South China Sea has been a significant flashpoint. The US routinely conducts "freedom of navigation" operations to challenge what it sees as excessive territorial claims by China. This has led to several close encounters between naval forces of both nations, raising concerns about the possibility of an unintended conflict.

Taiwan remains another thorny issue. China views the self-governing island as a breakaway province and has not ruled out the use of force to achieve reunification. The US, while officially adhering to a "One China" policy, maintains strong unofficial ties with Taiwan, including significant arms sales, further complicating relations.

Human rights issues cannot be overlooked either. The US has repeatedly criticized China's treatment of Uyghur Muslims, labeling the situation in Xinjiang as genocide. Sanctions and public denunciations have been part of the US response, contributing to the deterioration in diplomatic ties.

In summary, the relations between the US and China are characterized by a complex mix of rivalry and interdependence. President Biden's remarks to his Quad allies about China "testing us" with aggressive tactics is a reminder of the prevailing strategic competition. Yet, this relationship also harbors areas of cooperation, offering a nuanced and multifaceted interaction between the two global giants.

Amid escalating tensions and deep-rooted competition, the U.S. and China have initiated high-level talks to navigate their complex relationship. Both countries wield considerable influence on the global stage, making the management of their bilateral interactions crucial not just for themselves, but for the entire world.

Despite their dense list of grievances and conflicting interests, Washington and Beijing recognize the importance of maintaining open channels of communication. The U.S. aims to ensure that its strategic rivalry with China remains on a competitive rather than a confrontational trajectory. As Daniel DePetris points out, while the dialogue is a positive step, it remains uncertain whether these discussions will lead to substantial changes in the geopolitical landscape.

Key areas of dispute include trade imbalances, cybersecurity concerns, and military posturing in the South China Sea. The U.S. has consistently focused on curbing China's growing influence, accusing it of unfair trade practices and intellectual property theft. Conversely, China perceives U.S. actions, such as the trade tariffs and freedom of navigation patrols, as attempts to contain its rise.

Despite these hostilities, both nations understand the potential catastrophic consequences of an uncontrolled escalation. Thus, their recent diplomatic engagements are anchored in the hope that competition won't spiral into conflict. These conversations are spearheaded by seasoned diplomats, invoking a delicate dance of mutual concessions and steadfastness on core issues.

The economic interdependence between the two superpowers adds another layer of complexity to their relationship. With China being the largest trading partner for many American businesses, there is a compelling economic incentive for peaceful coexistence. However, balancing economic ties with national security interests remains a persistent challenge for U.S. policymakers.

Furthermore, the global fight against climate change presents an arena for potential cooperation. Both countries are major carbon emitters, and their collaboration could significantly contribute to global emission reduction efforts. This shared responsibility underscores the importance of dialogue and negotiation in areas where interests align.

Military considerations also play a critical role in their interactions. The U.S. maintains a significant military presence in the Asia-Pacific region, which China views as a threat to its sovereignty and regional ambitions. Conversely, China's rapid military modernization and expansion are perceived as aggressive moves by the U.S., necessitating a cautious approach to avoid miscalculations.

In conclusion, while the U.S. and China are entrenched in a strategic competition, their ongoing talks reflect a mutual understanding of the necessity for careful management of their relations. High-level discussions may not immediately resolve their differences, but they are an essential mechanism to prevent their rivalry from descending into open hostility. The future of U.S.-China relations remains uncertain, but the commitment to dialogue offers a glimmer of hope for a stable and controlled competitive coexistence.

China has imposed sanctions on nine US defense firms as a response to the United States' arms sales to Taiwan. This move marks another escalation in the complex and often contentious China-US relations. The Chinese government has explicitly demanded that the United States halts what it describes as military collusion with Taiwan. These sanctions underline the ongoing geopolitical maneuvering between the world's two largest economies, which have a history of clashing over issues such as trade, human rights, and territorial disputes.

The sanctioned companies are major players in the US defense industry, and their business dealings with Taiwan have particularly irked Beijing. China views Taiwan as a breakaway province and opposes any form of military support for the island, which it considers a red line in its foreign policy. The United States, on the other hand, maintains a policy of strategic ambiguity towards Taiwan, providing it with defensive arms while not explicitly backing its independence.

Relations between the United States and China have been strained in recent years, with both sides engaging in a tit-for-tat exchange of economic and political measures. The imposition of these sanctions by China is a direct retaliation to the United States' actions and serves as a stern warning against further military aide to Taiwan.

This development follows a series of confrontations, including trade wars, accusations of espionage, and conflicting stances on the South China Sea. Despite these tensions, both nations have also shown instances of cooperation in areas such as climate change and global health, indicating a complex relationship that balances rivalry with reluctant collaboration.

China's call for the US to stop military collusion with Taiwan is grounded in its commitment to a One-China policy, which the global community widely acknowledges but interprets differently. The US, while recognizing the People's Republic of China as the sole legal government of China, has continued its unofficial support for Taiwan through arms sales, a move seen as necessary to maintain stability in the region and uphold its commitments under the Taiwan Relations Act.

Analysts argue that these actions could lead to increased instability in the Indo-Pacific region. The sanctions are likely to have economic ramifications for the defense industry, but the full extent of their impact remains to be seen. The Biden administration has yet to respond to these sanctions formally, but it faces a difficult balancing act: supporting Taiwan's defense needs without provoking further escalation with China.

As these two superpowers navigate their complex relationship, the international community watches closely. The US and China are inextricably linked through trade, investment, and global governance structures, making their interactions profoundly impactful on a global scale.

In conclusion, the sanctions imposed by China on US defense firms are indicative of a broader struggle for influence and power in the international arena. The demand for halting military collusion with Taiwan adds another layer of tension to the already fraught China-US relations, highlighting the delicate dance that both nations must perform to avoid further conflicts while pursuing their national interests.

The relationship between the United States and China has become a focal point of global economic and technological debates, particularly in the semiconductor industry. Semiconductors are the backbone of modern technology, powering everything from smartphones to advanced military equipment. As such, they play a critical role in national security and economic stability. The Financial Times recently highlighted America's urgent need for a more nuanced strategy concerning semiconductor policy to maintain its competitive edge.

Export controls have become a key tool in the US's strategy to limit China's access to advanced semiconductor technology. The logic behind this approach is straightforward: by restricting China's ability to procure cutting-edge chips, the US can slow down the technological advancements of its primary global competitor. However, while export controls serve a strategic purpose, they also present significant risks, primarily the potential to stifle innovation within the US semiconductor industry itself.

The semiconductor supply chain is inherently global, with different components and stages of production spread across various countries. By imposing stringent export controls, the US risks isolating its semiconductor industry from valuable international collaborations and market opportunities. Such restrictions can also drive Chinese companies to develop their own capabilities, eventually reducing their dependence on US technology altogether.

Moreover, the US semiconductor industry thrives on a delicate balance of competition and collaboration. Companies often rely on international sales and partnerships to fund research and development. Export controls that are too restrictive may reduce revenue streams, thereby limiting the funds available for innovation. This could lead to a stagnation in technological advancements, counteracting the very goal of maintaining US superiority in the semiconductor field.

Another critical concern is the potential for retaliatory measures from China. Should China choose to respond with its own set of export controls, the repercussions could be severe for US companies that have integrated Chinese components or rely on Chinese markets. The ensuing trade war could disrupt supply chains, increase production costs, and ultimately make US products less competitive globally.

Therefore, the US must craft a semiconductor strategy that balances national security concerns with the need for global cooperation and innovation. One approach could be to target export controls more precisely, focusing on technologies with clear military applications while allowing freer access to consumer-grade components. This would hinder China’s military advancements without overly constraining commercial innovation.

Public and private sector collaboration is essential in this effort. The US government could work closely with industry leaders to identify critical technologies that need protection and ensure that export controls are implemented in a manner that minimizes collateral damage to the industry. Additionally, increased investment in domestic semiconductor manufacturing and R&D can help mitigate the impact of reduced international cooperation.

In conclusion, while export controls are a necessary tool in the geopolitical landscape between the US and China, they should be wielded with precision and care. A myopic focus on restriction could choke off the very innovation that the US seeks to protect. By adopting a balanced strategy, the US can safeguard its national interests while fostering an environment of growth and technological advancement. This nuanced approach will be crucial in maintaining America’s leadership in the semiconductor industry in an increasingly interconnected global economy.

Top military leaders from the U.S. and China recently convened in Beijing for routine discussions, marking a significant diplomatic engagement after the talks had been suspended for an extended period. The resumption of these high-level dialogues in January was a notable step in addressing longstanding and emergent issues between the two global powers, particularly focusing on the South China Sea—a region of strategic importance and frequent contention.

The South China Sea, rich in resources and crucial for international maritime trade, has long been a focal point of geopolitical tension. China’s extensive territorial claims in the area conflict with those of other nations, many of whom the U.S. backs. The reinitiated talks underscore both countries' recognition of the necessity for open channels of communication to manage these disputes and prevent escalation.

In these meetings, both sides highlighted their commitment to maintaining regional stability. While specific details of the discussions were not publicly disclosed, it is understood that the agenda was comprehensive, covering a broad spectrum of subjects beyond the contentious South China Sea. These likely included issues like cybersecurity, military transparency, and crisis management mechanisms—all critical areas for preventing misunderstandings that could lead to conflict.

The dialogue not only served as a venue to address mutual concerns but also to rebuild trust that had wavered during the hiatus. The re-engagement falls in line with the broader diplomatic efforts observed in recent months, aiming at de-escalating tensions which have spiked due to military maneuvers and aggressive posturing by both nations in the Indo-Pacific region.

The U.S., emphasizing freedom of navigation and adhering to international law, often conducts naval operations in the South China Sea, signaling its rejection of China's claims. These operations have been a persistent irritant in U.S.-China relations. Conversely, China perceives these actions as provocations and interferences in its sovereignty. Therefore, these military discussions are crucial in establishing protocols that can help manage such confrontations and reduce the risk of miscalculations.

Beyond the immediate military concerns, these talks reflect a broader recognition that U.S.-China relations are at a critical juncture. Both nations are key players on the global stage, and their interactions significantly impact global peace, economic stability, and international order. Hence, maintaining open lines of military communication is essential, not just for bilateral relations but for the broader international community.

In conclusion, the revival of these high-level military discussions between the U.S. and China indicates a mutual understanding of the importance of dialogue in navigating their complex relationship. While challenges persist, such engagements are a foundational step towards more stable and predictable interactions, which are paramount for peace and stability in the region and beyond.

In recent years, the relationship between the United States and China has experienced significant turbulence, punctuated by economic competition, political disagreements, and a series of confrontations that have left both nations on edge. However, recent developments suggest a cautious optimism about the future of US-China relations and their potential stabilization.

One of the main points of contention has been trade. The trade war, initiated under the Trump administration, saw tariffs imposed on billions of dollars’ worth of goods from both countries. This not only strained economic ties but also had ripple effects on the global economy. However, recent negotiations indicate a willingness from both sides to come to mutually beneficial agreements. For instance, the Phase One Trade Deal signed in early 2020 provided a temporary reprieve, setting the stage for more comprehensive discussions. While challenges remain, such as intellectual property rights and market access, the ongoing dialogue is a step towards stability.

Another critical area has been technological rivalry. The US has expressed concerns over China’s advancements in 5G technology, particularly the activities of companies like Huawei. These concerns extend to issues of cybersecurity and espionage. In response, the US has implemented measures to curb Chinese tech influence, such as excluding Huawei from its infrastructure projects and pressuring allies to do the same. On the other hand, China has ramped up its efforts to become self-reliant in critical technologies, aiming to reduce its dependency on US technology. Despite these tensions, both nations recognize the importance of collaboration in areas like climate change and global health, where technology plays a pivotal role.

Human rights issues also contribute to the volatile relations. The US has consistently criticized China for its policies in Xinjiang, Hong Kong, and Tibet, citing concerns over human rights abuses and lack of political freedoms. Sanctions and diplomatic pressure have been tools used by the US to address these issues, provoking strong responses from China, which views such actions as interference in its internal affairs. Nonetheless, ongoing dialogue attempts to bridge these ideological divides, with some advocates pushing for more cooperative and less confrontational approaches.

Military presence and activities in the Asia-Pacific region further complicate the relationship. The South China Sea remains a hotly contested area, with China's territorial claims clashing with those of several Southeast Asian nations, backed by the US. Frequent naval maneuvers and increased military presence from both sides have raised concerns about potential conflicts. Despite these tensions, there are channels for military-to-military communication and crisis management that have been established to prevent misunderstandings from escalating into conflict.

On the softer side of diplomacy, cultural and educational exchanges provide a glimmer of stability. Millions of Chinese students study in the US, contributing to mutual understanding and economic benefits for both nations. Moreover, people-to-people exchanges, such as tourism, though impacted by the pandemic, hold potential for rebuilding trust and goodwill.

In summary, while US-China relations are fraught with complexities, there are areas where both nations are showing signs of cooperation and mutual understanding. Economic negotiations, technological collaboration on global issues, and cultural exchanges are constructive pathways that could lead to a more stable future. Given the significant impact these two superpowers have on the global stage, finding a balance between competition and cooperation is not just desirable but essential.

Chinese and Russian defense officials took swipes at the West at a military diplomacy forum in Beijing on Friday, with China courting the Global South in a show of solidarity against perceived Western dominance. This event underscores the evolving dynamics of US and China relations, as geopolitical alliances and rivalries reshape the global landscape.

During the Beijing forum, key Chinese figures emphasized China’s position as a counterbalance to Western influence. Senior Chinese military officials highlighted their nation's commitment to fostering peaceful cooperation and development among Global South nations, an effort aimed at creating a coalition that could diminish Western hegemony.

In a strategic move, China is strengthening its ties with Russia. The two nations have conducted numerous joint military exercises, including naval drills in the Sea of Japan and the East China Sea. These actions signal a deepening military cooperation intended to present a unified front against the United States and its allies.

The forum saw Russian defense representatives voice similar sentiments, critiquing Western policies and challenging their narratives on global security issues. The synergy between China and Russia was evident from their coordinated messaging, promoting a multipolar world order where Western influence is balanced by other global powers.

This Sino-Russian camaraderie is perceived by many analysts as a strategic response to the increasing tensions with the United States. US policy in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly its support for Taiwan and efforts to build alliances with countries like Japan, South Korea, and Australia, has been met with vocal opposition from Beijing. China views these moves as efforts to contain its rise and maintain American regional supremacy.

The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is another critical aspect of China’s strategy to expand its influence, especially among developing nations in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. By investing in infrastructure projects across these regions, China aims to cement long-term economic ties that could translate into political support. The BRI also serves as a platform for China to gain access to strategic maritime routes and resources, further bolstering its global standing.

Conversely, the United States has been wary of China's expanding global footprint, seeing it as a potential threat to American interests and alliances. The trade war initiated under the Trump administration, followed by ongoing tensions over technological competition and human rights issues under President Biden, have kept US-China relations on a rocky trajectory.

Despite these tensions, both countries also recognize the importance of cooperation on certain global issues, such as climate change and public health. High-level dialogues between US and Chinese officials continue, albeit with mixed results, reflecting a complex relationship marked by competition, conflict, and occasional collaboration.

The recent Beijing forum illustrates the shifting alliances in the international arena, with China and Russia positioning themselves as counterweights to Western power. This evolving partnership highlights the strategic calculations driving US and China relations, as both powers navigate a path through cooperation and rivalry in an increasingly divided world.

As these global dynamics unfold, the international community watches closely, understanding that the future of US-China relations will significantly influence the direction of global policy, economic stability, and security.