Jake Sullivan, the White House National Security Adviser, recently sat down for an interview to reflect on the Biden administration’s China policy. Sullivan, who has been a key player in shaping the administration’s approach to China, discussed the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the U.S.-China relationship.
Sullivan began by emphasizing the importance of a strategic and competitive approach to China. He acknowledged that China is a strategic competitor to the United States and that the Biden administration is focused on addressing the challenges posed by China’s growing influence and assertiveness.
Sullivan highlighted the need for the United States to work with allies and partners in addressing common concerns about China’s behavior. He stressed the importance of building a coalition of like-minded countries to counter China’s efforts to undermine the international rules-based order.
Sullivan also touched on the importance of engaging with China on areas of mutual interest, such as climate change and global health security. He noted that while the United States and China may have differences on certain issues, there are also opportunities for cooperation that can benefit both countries and the world as a whole.
When asked about the Biden administration’s approach to human rights in China, Sullivan emphasized the importance of standing up for universal values and human rights. He expressed concern about China’s human rights abuses, including its treatment of Uighur Muslims in Xinjiang and its crackdown on democracy in Hong Kong. Sullivan made it clear that the United States will continue to raise these issues with China and work with allies to hold China accountable for its actions.
Overall, Sullivan’s reflections on the Biden administration’s China policy highlight the complex and multifaceted nature of the U.S.-China relationship. While there are certainly challenges and areas of disagreement, there are also opportunities for cooperation and collaboration. Sullivan’s approach to China reflects a balanced and strategic approach that seeks to advance U.S. interests while also engaging with China on areas of mutual interest. It will be interesting to see how the Biden administration’s China policy evolves in the coming months and years.