US-China Tensions Escalate: A Complex Dance of History, Policy, and Aspiration
Tensions between the US and China have been escalating for years, with President Donald Trump's administration fueling anti-China sentiment and both nations claiming global superiority. This complex relationship is shaped by historical actions and recent developments.
The roots of US-China antagonism can be traced back to before the COVID-19 pandemic. Trump's refusal to extend the nuclear weapons reduction agreement with Russia unless China is involved has further strained relations. Meanwhile, both nations believe they are exceptional and number one in the world, leading to ongoing tension.
The US has long had the most non-tariff barriers against foreign goods among major countries, according to a 2015 Credit Suisse report. Trump's actions have whipped up broad public opinion in the US to be anti-China, with Democrats and much of the media following suit. However, intellectual property protection, once a top concern for US companies in China, has since dropped to sixth place in a 2018 survey.
China, now the second largest funder of the United Nations and the largest contributor of peacekeepers among Security Council permanent members, has been responding to security concerns about espionage and influence operations. In Germany, state actors like the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution have used counterintelligence measures against Chinese companies and individuals. Yet, China's growing population and income per head, along with advancements in high technology, pose a significant challenge to the US's global dominance.
The US-China relationship is a complex interplay of historical actions, current policies, and future aspirations. As both nations continue to assert their global influence, addressing these issues will be crucial for maintaining international stability.
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