Mutual understanding is way forward for Sino-US relationship

"I am leaving with some optimism," United States Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo said after completing her recent visit to China.

During the visit, which exemplified the potential for constructive diplomacy, Raimondo engaged in crucial talks with her Chinese counterpart, heralding a new chapter of cooperation between the two global economic powerhouses.

The bilateral discussions, without yielding any significant breakthrough, resulted in the establishment of a robust framework for enhanced communication and dispute resolution.

Amid an atmosphere of goodwill, the establishment of fresh communication channels and a dedicated working group to address trade disputes signals a mutual commitment to trade stability. Furthermore, the introduction of an export control information exchange mechanism demonstrates that Raimondo reciprocated Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao's advocacy of transparency and trust-building in bilateral economic relations.

Crucially, the commitment to regular high-level meetings reflects a sincere intention to bridge divides and foster long-term collaboration.

Raimondo's visit to China transcended mere economic discussions, highlighting the broader scope of cooperation between the two nations. Her meetings with high-ranking Chinese officials, who in addition to Commerce Minister Wang included Premier Li Qiang, Vice-Premier He Lifeng, Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Culture and Tourism Minister Hu Heping, underscored the comprehensive nature of discussions that extended beyond economic considerations. This diplomatic engagement signified a mutual understanding that actions must align with words.

Raimondo's visit, following a series of similar engagements by senior US officials, rekindled hope for a more harmonious and productive future. The momentous occasion also demonstrated the potential for cooperation and set the stage for improved diplomatic ties.

Her call for a fair regulatory environment for US businesses in China resonated with the need for equity, while China's commerce minister emphasized the importance of ending discriminatory subsidies and sanctions against Chinese enterprises.

The recent visits to China by senior officials of the administration of US President Joe Biden signify a palpable shift in the US approach. They also demonstrate a growing awareness in Washington that actions targeting China can inadvertently harm US interests. This acknowledgment underscores the importance of a more balanced and constructive approach to fostering stability and growth in the global arena.

As the dialogue continues, hope grows for a future marked by cooperation and mutual benefit between the two nations.

China's ascent as the world's leading manufacturing hub is an undeniable reality, challenging the notion of swift relocation for US businesses. The US must recognize that China's ascent benefits the global community by reducing poverty, fostering interdependence and promoting global peace and prosperity. In this interconnected world, cooperation and understanding between the world's two largest economies can lead to shared progress and a brighter future for all.

Characterizing China as a "strategic competitor" and imposing a slew of sanctions is a counterproductive approach, both economically and strategically. From an international trade standpoint, such a stance neither serves US employment interests nor benefits its consumers. Furthermore, the interwoven nature of the global economy makes decoupling from China a lofty and unrealistic goal.

A more strategic approach would involve recognizing the complexities of global trade and seeking avenues of cooperation and engagement rather than isolation and confrontation.

Raimondo's visit to China may not have yielded immediate breakthroughs on pressing issues concerning US corporations, but it has set a constructive tone for future engagements between the two global giants, with an emphasis on patience and pragmatism. Her candid acknowledgment that immediate breakthroughs were not anticipated on major contentious issues demonstrated a commitment to productive dialogue over quick fixes.

It is noteworthy that both sides are actively working to create a conducive atmosphere for a potential meeting between the leaders of the US and China at the summit of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum in November in the US. This effort underscores the urgency of easing tensions and pursuing pragmatic cooperation for the greater global good. For a lasting improvement in relations, however, the US must demonstrate that its measures, ostensibly designed to safeguard national security interests, do not unfairly target China with the intent to stifle its development.

Raimondo's remarks imply a mutual desire for transparency and fairness, essential elements in building trust between nations. It is clear that patience, diplomacy and mutual understanding must guide the path forward, for the benefit of both nations and the broader international community. A genuine commitment to addressing shared concerns and fostering mutually beneficial cooperation is essential for long-term stability and prosperity.

The author is an international affairs commentator and freelancer based in Karachi, Pakistan.