Blinken likely to reschedule China visit amid easing tensions
A rescheduled visit to China by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is anticipated in the coming weeks, as both nations attempt to ease tensions. Blinken’s initial trip in February was cancelled after the US detected and subsequently shot down a Chinese espionage balloon over its territory. However, recent talks in Beijing involving senior US officials, including Daniel Kritenbrink, the top US diplomat for East Asia, have been positively assessed by both countries.
A US official, who wished to remain anonymous, revealed that Blinken is expected to reschedule his visit to China soon, but no specific date has been confirmed. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said the recent Beijing discussions included “the potential for future visits” and was “very useful.”
State Department spokesman Vedant Patel acknowledged that Kritenbrink and senior White House official Sarah Beran held “candid and productive discussions” in China. Regarding Blinken’s trip, Patel stated, “We look forward to rescheduling that visit when conditions allow.” Patel emphasised the importance of in-person meetings, saying there is no substitute for them, whether held in Washington or Beijing.
In recent years, tensions have escalated between the world’s two largest economies over various issues, including trade and security. The US has expressed concern about China’s preparations for a possible seizure of Taiwan, a self-governing democracy claimed by Beijing. Despite Presidents Joe Biden and Xi Jinping agreeing to work towards avoiding miscalculations during extensive talks in Bali in November, tensions quickly resurfaced due to the espionage balloon incident.
