US Treasury Secretary Yellen spent four days in China for consultations. The result: the “differences of opinion” remain, but in the future both nations want to focus more on mutual exchange.
US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has completed her four-day trip to China. The final conclusion of the visit is quite positive on both sides, even if Yellen openly admits differences between the two world powers.
Before leaving Beijing, the 76-year-old said her trip helped put bilateral relations between the United States and China on a “secure basis.” In the past few days, she had advised here in several talks with Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang and the People’s Republic’s Minister of Finance, He Lifeng, among others.
Yellen acknowledged that there were “significant disagreements” between the two governments, adding: “No visit will solve our challenges overnight.” It is all the more important that these differences are communicated directly.
The US Treasury Secretary warned that the United States and China both have a duty to shape mutual relations responsibly. That’s why she hopes that her country can build a “resilient and productive communication channel” with China. Both nations would have to find a way “to live together and share global prosperity”. And Yellen was convinced: “We believe that the world is big enough for both of our countries to thrive.”
Stressed positive conclusion
The conclusion of the Chinese government after Yellen’s visit was also decidedly positive. Finance Minister He Lifeng spoke of a constructive, intensive and open exchange. China is also relying on “strengthening communication” between the two countries.
But the People’s Republic also pointed out the existing tensions with the USA – for example due to the sanctions imposed by the USA on China.
Tensions have been increasing for years
Relations between Washington and Beijing have deteriorated significantly in recent years over trade and human rights issues, dealings with Taiwan, and a host of other issues. In February, a dispute over a suspected Chinese spy balloon over US territory led to a new high in tensions, with a planned state visit by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken being postponed indefinitely.
Blinken finally made up for the trip last month – the first visit by a US Secretary of State to China in five years. Surprisingly, he was even received by head of state and party leader Xi Jinping. During this visit, both sides made it clear that they wanted to stabilize their mutual relations again.