US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen emphasized the crucial need for transparent and straightforward communication between the United States and China, highlighting the existence of significant differences that require attention.
Yellen’s comments came following extensive bilateral meetings lasting 10 hours with high-ranking Chinese officials, marking the conclusion of her four-day visit to Beijing. While acknowledging the disparities, Yellen underscored that President Joe Biden and herself do not perceive the relationship as a clash of great powers, asserting that both nations can flourish harmoniously on the global stage.
“The US and China hold substantial disagreements,” Yellen stated during a press conference held at the US embassy in Beijing.
“However, President Biden and I do not view the US-China relationship through the lens of great power conflict. We firmly believe that there is ample space in the world for both our countries to thrive.”
Throughout her visit, Yellen aimed to establish and reinforce connections with China’s newly appointed economic team, fostering mutual understanding and collaboration on critical issues such as climate change and debt challenges. She emphasized that the United States is not seeking to sever ties with China’s economy, as such a move would be detrimental to both nations and destabilizing for the global community. Instead, the US advocates for an open, equitable, and fair economic environment that does not impose an ultimatum on countries to pick sides.
