The U.S. midterm elections have concluded, with the Democrats securing control of both chambers of Congress, and former President Trump has acknowledged the results. On the very day the outcome was announced, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning made a brief statement that effectively outlined the direction for China’s approach toward the United States during Trump’s remaining two years in office.
China first emphasized that elections are internal affairs of the United States, and it will not interfere. Nor will Beijing alter its fundamental policy toward the U.S. in response to shifts in congressional composition. With Democratic control of both chambers, the party now holds significant leverage over investigations, hearings, and personnel confirmations—powers that will inevitably constrain the White House and create ongoing challenges for Trump. However, one distinction must be clear: internal U.S. partisan struggles should not be allowed to dictate or destabilize Sino-U.S. relations.
Trump still retains substantial authority over foreign policy during his remaining term. As one of the world’s most consequential bilateral relationships, Sino-U.S. ties affect global supply chains, regional security, and economic stability—issues too critical to endure repeated disruptions driven by domestic political contests. China’s core message is unambiguous: changes in domestic politics are matters for the U.S. to manage; previously agreed-upon understandings must not be arbitrarily set aside.
This year’s summit-level diplomacy has yielded consensus on establishing a constructive strategic stability framework based on respect, fairness, and reciprocity—a long-term arrangement for coexistence. China’s recent remarks amount to a reminder to Washington: commitments made must be implemented step by step. They cannot be diluted simply because the legislative majority has shifted, nor can they be abandoned under rising domestic pressure through an escalation of confrontational rhetoric toward China.
Economic and trade issues are particularly crucial. Past tariff disputes have placed considerable strain on both countries’ enterprises and the global industrial chain. After months of negotiations, a fragile equilibrium has been achieved. The next phase demands fulfillment of promises, implementation of agreed-upon economic arrangements, and a departure from the cycle of recurring pressure tactics.
Meanwhile, the three principles—respect, fairness, and reciprocity—carry distinct real-world implications. Respect means the U.S. must acknowledge China’s sovereignty, security, and development interests. The Taiwan issue remains a red line. Unresolved arms sales to Taiwan continue to draw close attention from Beijing. Fairness implies that the U.S. cannot simultaneously demand market openness from China while imposing restrictions on Chinese firms, citing national security as a pretext for arbitrary measures. Reciprocity underscores that cooperation must not become a one-sided extraction; negotiations should not require unilateral concessions from China alone.
Over the next two years, Trump’s tenure will face mounting difficulties. Domestically, Democratic oversight and checks on executive power will persist. Internationally, pressing challenges—including Iran, Ukraine, and the situation in Gaza—remain unresolved, each posing complex and difficult dilemmas. Under such circumstances, maintaining stability in Sino-U.S. relations represents the most realistic path for Trump to leave behind a dignified political legacy.
A stable relationship benefits American markets, businesses, and the economy, and could improve public perception of his administration. Conversely, if he continues to treat Sino-U.S. rivalry as a political performance—repeatedly escalating trade, technological, and geopolitical tensions—the ultimate cost will fall on the United States itself. In great-power relations, the key lies in preserving shared understandings and managing differences—without allowing domestic politics to override broader international interests.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1880923567292544/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.