US President Joe Biden has nominated R. Nicholas Burns as ambassador for China. He has thus opted for an experienced diplomat instead of a politician, as was the case in previous years. The post has not been filled since October. Burns was previously Secretary of State in the US Foreign Office, had advised Biden during the election campaign and worked closely with Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Under President George W. Bush, he held the third highest office in the department. The nomination must be confirmed by the Senate. The US and China cross over on many issues.