Blinken Visits Shanghai, Calls for Responsible Management of US-China Differences

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited Shanghai, China on April 25, 2024, a day before his expected talks in Beijing. During his visit, Blinken called for the responsible management of US-China differences, emphasizing the importance of direct engagement and dialogue between the world's two largest economies.

Blinken met with the local Communist Party leader in Shanghai, where he expressed President Biden's commitment to sustained dialogue. He stressed the obligation to manage the US-China relationship responsibly for the well-being of both peoples and the future of humanity. "We have an obligation to manage our relationship responsibly, to ensure that the competition between our countries does not veer into conflict," Blinken said.

The visit to Shanghai, the first by a US Secretary of State in 14 years, was seen as a charm offensive ahead of Blinken's anticipated tough talks in Beijing. Blinken engaged in various activities in the city, including sampling local food, watching a basketball game, and strolling along the famous Bund promenade.

Why this matters: Blinken's visit to China comes at a critical juncture in US-China relations, as the two countries seek to stabilize ties amid tensions over issues like China's support for Russia's defense industry, tensions in the South China Sea, and Taiwan. The visit underscores the importance of high-level bilateral dialogue in managing the complex and often strained relationship between the two global powers.

The visit follows a recent phone call between US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping, where they confirmed the importance of enhanced high-level bilateral dialogue to stabilize relations. China has welcomed Blinken's trip but has sharply reacted to US claims that China has been supporting Russia's defense industry, calling the accusations "groundless".

Blinken is expected to express concerns over China's support for Russia and discuss other high-priority issues during his talks, which are set to begin in Beijing. The visit is seen as a sign that the two sides are willing to discuss their differences, despite the complex and strained relationship. As Blinken stated, "Direct engagement and sustained dialogue are key to responsibly managing our differences and ensuring that competition does not veer into conflict."

Key Takeaways

• Blinken visited Shanghai, China, before talks in Beijing, calling for responsible US-China ties.
• Blinken met with local Communist Party leader, stressing need to manage US-China competition.
• Blinken's visit, first by a US Secretary of State in 14 years, seen as charm offensive.
• Visit aims to stabilize US-China ties amid tensions over Russia, South China Sea, Taiwan.
• Blinken expected to raise concerns over China's support for Russia during Beijing talks.