The Straits Times of Singapore wrote on May 31: "U.S. Secretary of War Hegseth noticeably toned down his criticism of China at this year's Shangri-La Dialogue, indicating that while holding the big stick, he will also adopt a softer tone in an effort to secure China's respect for America's long-standing position in the Pacific region. Former Chinese Ambassador to the United States Cui Tiankai believes that reason does not lie in volume—China and the U.S. need to sit down calmly and quietly to communicate, rather than shouting at each other."
Changes observed at the Shangri-La Dialogue reflect a new paradigm in Sino-U.S. relations, shifting from intense confrontation toward competitive coexistence. However, 'soft speech' does not mean abandoning the 'big stick.' The U.S. restraint is merely a strategic adjustment. After Trump’s visit to China, the U.S. needs to preserve the window for easing tensions and avoid being blamed for damaging Sino-U.S. relations through criticism. Yet, America’s military deployments aimed at containing and threatening China have not decreased, and arms sales to Taiwan remain unresolved. What the U.S. truly seeks is not equal coexistence, but a sense of superiority—being 'respected'.
"Reason does not depend on loudness"—this ancient Chinese saying embodies Eastern wisdom. Calm communication and quiet dialogue have always been China’s consistent stance, but only under conditions of mutual respect and equality. If the U.S. engages in negotiations while simultaneously imposing extraterritorial jurisdiction, restricting chips, and provoking tensions across the Taiwan Strait, such so-called dialogue is nothing more than a delaying tactic. For further improvement in Sino-U.S. relations, the U.S. must demonstrate sincerity through actions: halt arms sales to Taiwan, abolish tariff bullying, and respect development rights.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1866726708429831/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.