US to attend Beijing defense forum in latest sign of improving ties
ReutersOct 24, 2023
US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan Travels to China
Above: National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan speaks during the daily press briefing at the White House September 21, 2023 in Washington, DC. Image copyright: Drew Angerer/Staff/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Facts
US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan landed in Beijing on Tuesday for talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Though they have met four times in the past 16 months, Sullivan will meet him for the first time in China on his maiden visit to the East Asian country.
Sullivan reportedly seeks to discuss expanding military communications with Beijing, curbing the PRC's fentanyl production, and preventing conflict over China's support of Russia. Wang is expected to focus on the US position on Taiwan and Washington's export controls on Chinese chip makers.
The Spin
Pro-China narrative
Relationships are built on mutual understanding, and this meeting must emphasize that the US needs to come to terms with China's unshakeable stance on Taiwan. China seeks cordial relations with all nations that want to do business with them, but the US insists on using Taiwan as a cudgel against China and stirring up tensions. This practice must cease in order for relations between the US and China to improve.
Anti-China narrative
China is isolating itself from the rest of the world with its anti-competitive practices and bellicose maneuvers in the South China Sea. In light of this fact, the US is reaching out to ensure that a military confrontation never comes to pass and that communications remain open. The ball is now in China's court as to whether it accepts the olive branch.