China perceives positive strides in US-China relations following the November meeting between President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping in San Francisco. However, a report suggests that the two nations are on a delicate precipice, just "one misstep away from sparking a war." The concern centers on potential US surveillance near Taiwan and support for the region, actions warned against by China.
The Global Times, a prominent Chinese newspaper, highlighted a video meeting between top military officials General Liu Zhenli of China and General Charles Q. Brown, the chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, as a positive signal. This meeting, stemming from the San Francisco summit, was characterized as substantive in the editorial titled "Chinese, US military talks a positive signal."
Despite this positive outlook, the editorial's warning of a potential misstep leading to war emphasizes the fragility of the current détente. It notes concerns about a minor incident escalating into an uncontrollable conflict between the two major powers.
While the Global Times editorial does not necessarily represent the official stance of the Chinese leadership, it underscores worries within China about the precarious nature of the US-China relationship. The report acknowledges the efforts to improve ties but cautions against actions that might undermine progress.
The heightened risk is attributed to increased US military activity near China, particularly in the Taiwan Strait. The Global Times argues that as the US intensifies surveillance and involvement in the region, the risk of direct military friction between the two nations grows. The editorial points to the US' failure to respect China's "core interests and major concerns" as a fundamental issue that must be addressed to prevent the risk of military confrontation.
This cautionary stance from the Global Times aligns with previous warnings it has issued against the US, citing actions perceived as provocative, such as military financing for Taiwan. The editorial emphasizes the need for the US to recognize and respect China's concerns for a sustainable improvement in bilateral relations.
Newsweek analyzed the Global Times report, highlighting the significance of the face-to-face meeting between Biden and Xi as a crucial step in restoring normal communication and preventing the escalation of rivalry between the two nations. Despite positive signals, the delicate balance suggests that even minor incidents could jeopardize the progress made in US-China relations.
(With Agency Inputs)
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