In a significant statement, Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for a successful partnership between China and the United States, arguing that their collaboration can be a catalyst for each other’s prosperity rather than a point of friction.
Xi’s message, conveyed in a letter to the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations’ 2024 annual awards dinner, highlights the importance he places on building a strong and mutually beneficial relationship. He emphasizes, “China is willing to be a partner and friend with the United States. This will benefit not only the two countries, but the world.”
The President’s remarks come at a time of heightened tension between the two global powers. Their relationship has been strained by concerns over national security, ongoing trade disputes, China’s actions in the South China Sea, and the escalation of military exercises around Taiwan.
Trade relations have deteriorated particularly over the past year, marked by friction over restrictions on electric vehicles and advanced semiconductors. However, Xi remains optimistic about the potential for cooperation. “China has always handled China-U.S. relations in accordance with the principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation, and has always believed that the success of China and the United States is an opportunity for each other,” he stated.
Xi acknowledges the crucial role of China-U.S. relations in shaping the future of the world. “China-U.S. relations are among the most important bilateral relations in the world, which have a bearing on the future and destiny of mankind,” he wrote.
This renewed call for partnership, despite the existing challenges, underscores the potential for a positive shift in China-U.S. relations. Whether the two countries can overcome their differences and forge a path of mutually beneficial cooperation remains to be seen. However, Xi Jinping’s message offers a clear vision for a future where the two superpowers can work together for shared prosperity and global stability.