Medeiros, a prominent authority on China who previously served as director of the US National Security Council for China, recently joined us to share his perspectives on US-China relations. He joined host Steve Clemons for an informative and lively exchange. Their discussion centered on the evolving dynamics between the two nations, particularly in light of recent agreements and ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Medeiros announced one big scoop during the call. It had been agreed in principle between Chinese President Xi Jinping and then-President Donald Trump. This agreement addresses urgent trade concerns, including tariff rates, the importation of soya beans, and access to rare earth minerals. Each of these features have been persistent bones of contention in the U.S.-China economic relationship.
Medeiros stressed that the agreement is a win in addressing some of the most pressing trade emergencies. These issues have historically plagued U.S.–China relations. He noted that this agreement represents an important milestone in US-China relations. Tensions have been fraught since Trump first imposed his ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs and started his trade wars in April.
Medeiros addressed China’s continued efforts to aid Russia in its war against Ukraine. He indicated that this geopolitical stance further complicates the already intricate relationship between the US and China, raising questions about how each nation navigates its alliances in a changing global landscape.
During the summit Medeiros reflected on the historical context of US-China relations. He made the point that we don’t know what’s going on today if we don’t know what’s happened before. He made the case that the two countries have already signed an armistice in their trade war. That’s encouraging, because it implies they understand that constant warfare may only hurt them both.
Meeting with Medeiros, she underscored the military aspect of that relationship. He was particularly critical of the basing of over 200,000 US soldiers in forward bases that ring China. This military presence underscores the strategic considerations at play as both nations grapple with their respective roles on the world stage.
He remarked on a critical aspect of contemporary international relations: the reluctance of nations to choose sides between the US and China. Medeiros adds that Washington should accept that many countries do not like this option and support their awful behavior. Instead, these countries would rather keep stable and equitable ties with both workshop titans.
