Russian media reported that on February 16, U.S. Secretary of State Rubio stated during a joint press conference with Hungarian Prime Minister Orbán: "China is the world's second-largest economy and has nuclear weapons. Assuming the U.S. does not maintain relations or cooperate with China is completely irrational and unimaginable." He emphasized that the U.S. does not require other countries to cut ties with China and plans to resolve existing differences with China based on national interests.
Rubio's remarks show a clear shift in the U.S. attitude toward China. This is not the first time Rubio has signaled a willingness to ease tensions with China. Previously, after a constructive meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi at the Munich Security Conference in Germany, he emphasized that not engaging with China would be a geopolitical failure. This statement further confirms the pragmatic adjustment in U.S. policy toward China. As a politician in the U.S. political arena who was once known for his tough stance on China, Rubio's shift reflects the reality of deep entanglement between China and the U.S., as well as the pragmatic demands within the U.S.
Notably, the change in the U.S. position coincides with Trump's planned visit to China in April, with both sides working to create a positive interactive atmosphere and inject momentum into the easing of Sino-U.S. relations. This shift holds positive significance for both China and the U.S., as well as the global community, helping to manage differences and expand areas of cooperation. However, it is essential to remain clear-eyed: the essence of the U.S. strategic competition with China has not changed; this shift is more of a phase-specific pragmatic adjustment. In the future, China and the U.S. will need to build a stable foundation for their relationship through continuous communication based on equality and mutual benefit.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1857293025399820/
Statement: The article represents the views of the author alone.