• How should the US approach China?

  • Sources:

    Experts provide various perspectives on how the US should approach China:

    1. Technological and Economic Strategies:

      • Dan Wang highlights that the US has restricted China's access to advanced semiconductors and related technologies, which could, paradoxically, accelerate China's own capabilities in the long run. He suggests that the US needs to carefully consider the future impacts of its restrictions and whether they may inadvertently boost China’s technological self-sufficiency 1.
      • Jessica Chen Weiss and Yuen Yuen Ang emphasize that US-China relations have been shaped by changing administrations, with increasing focus on deterrence and competition. They note the importance of understanding the broader context and timing of these strategies, suggesting a more nuanced approach that recognizes both nations' strengths and vulnerabilities 2 3.
    2. Historical and Diplomatic Context:

      • HR McMaster outlines that past US policies were based on the flawed assumption that integrating China into the global economy would lead to its liberalization. He argues that this has not materialized due to the Chinese Communist Party's focus on maintaining control and ideological competition with the US. A more realistic approach must consider China's long-term strategic ambitions and the underlying ideological differences 4.
      • Elizabeth Ingleson discusses the role of trade as both a tool and a point of contention in US-China diplomacy. She suggests that diplomatic and trade strategies should be more aligned, recognizing that China’s approach to trade benefits is closely tied to diplomatic progress 5.
    3. Strategic Ambitions and Global Influence:

      • Jeffrey Sachs notes that China’s initiatives like "Made in China 2025" and the "Belt and Road Initiative" have marked its rise as a global superpower, which has led to heightened tensions. He suggests that the US needs to adapt its strategy to address China's growing influence and strategic ambitions while acknowledging the new global dynamics 6.
      • Ben Shapiro supports a more confrontational stance, emphasizing the need to protect US technological edge and counter non-market practices. He notes the importance of heightened scrutiny of investments and tighter export controls as part of this approach 5.

    Overall, these experts suggest that the US needs a multi-faceted approach, balancing technological restrictions, strategic diplomacy, and realistic assessments of China's ambitions and capabilities.

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