Former US Ambassador to China Calls for Unilateral Actions and Maintenance of Status Quo to Improve US-China Relations

The United States and China are working towards stabilizing their relationship, although they face challenges due to persisting mistrust and the issue of Taiwan. According to Max Baucus, former U.S. Ambassador to China, both sides should consider taking unilateral actions to build confidence instead of being tied down by reciprocity.

Baucus suggests that as a start, Washington should repeal sanctions on the Chinese Defense Minister, which has been a stumbling block in restarting military dialogues. He also emphasizes the importance of maintaining the status quo on the Taiwan issue.

After a meeting between Presidents Biden and Xi in Bali, relations between the two countries deteriorated. Baucus explains that just like how he would plan to do great things when he returned to Washington from his home state, the reality of bureaucracy often makes it difficult to follow through.

A small incident, such as the "spy balloon" row, can have a significant impact and derail progress. Baucus believes that the U.S. and China should focus on finding areas of basic cooperation rather than setting up guardrails in their relationship.

He suggests that reciprocity can sometimes hinder progress, and taking unilateral actions to show good faith can be more effective. For example, he proposes repealing the sanction on the Chinese Defense Minister as a no-brainer move to improve relations.

Regarding the emphasis on competition in the U.S.-China relationship, Baucus raises a crucial question: what does competition truly mean? He suggests that if competition means winning, it can upset the other side and hinder cooperation.

He advocates for more clarity on the concept of competition to avoid misunderstandings and further strained relations. The Taiwan issue remains a significant concern between the two countries. Baucus argues that the U.S. needs to understand that Taiwan is an existential and non-negotiable issue for China.

He criticizes politicians, such as Nancy Pelosi, for undermining the "one China policy" by visiting Taiwan. He believes that putting the Taiwan issue on the shelf, as Deng Xiaoping suggested, and maintaining the status quo is the best approach.

Baucus acknowledges and supports the Biden administration's efforts to strengthen alliances and partnerships, particularly with countries like India, as part of their broader China policy. He highlights the importance of enhancing commercial ties as well, as too much focus is often placed on political headlines.

Despite the political challenges in U.S.-China relations, Baucus remains committed to promoting closer people-to-people ties between the two countries. He recalls his own experiences traveling the world and meeting with foreign leaders, which inspired him to get into public service.

Baucus believes that communication and travel are essential for better understanding and finding solutions to complex issues. In conclusion, while U.S.-China relations face obstacles, there is still hope for improved communication and cooperation.

Taking unilateral actions, maintaining the status quo on Taiwan, focusing on areas of basic cooperation, and promoting people-to-people ties can all contribute to a more stable and positive relationship between the two countries.