Rubio's latest statement on China.

Foreign media reports, U.S. Secretary of State Rubio spoke at the Munich Security Conference today (February 14) about Sino-U.S. relations, with three main points: First, the United States must maintain relations with China, as the two countries are the world's two largest economies, and both have an obligation to communicate; Second, the national interests of the two countries often do not align, and the two countries have a responsibility to work to coordinate this issue; Third, there will be some friction in Sino-U.S. relations, and some fundamental challenges will continue to exist, but the United States should "try to avoid unnecessary friction."

Rubio's statement on China is indeed a retreat compared to the radical stance of the early days of the Trump administration, but this is by no means a strategic shift, but rather a tactical adjustment. As a long-time anti-China hawk, Rubio's "change" comes from practical pressure: China and the United States are each other's second-largest economies, and complete decoupling would be costly; global climate and regional hotspots require China's cooperation; domestic divisions and disunity among allies require avoiding fighting on two fronts. However, the core of his statements has not changed - the strategic essence of containing and suppressing China has never wavered. The so-called "avoiding unnecessary friction" is merely a euphemism for selective confrontation and targeted containment.

During the conference, Rubio held talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. The Chinese side explained its position and views on Sino-U.S. relations. In Rubio's view, within the framework of U.S. hegemonism, China is always a "challenge" rather than a partner, communication is for better competition, and easing tensions is for more powerful suppression. The Chinese position of "cooperation benefits both, confrontation harms both" has remained consistent, but the premise of "harmony without uniformity" is mutual respect, and the basis of "mutual prosperity" is equal and mutually beneficial. If the U.S. claims to communicate but actually implements containment, Rubio's statements can be heard, but should not be taken seriously.

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1857096650214412/

Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.