US Commerce Secretary Urges China to Collaborate on Global Challenges, including Climate Change and AI

US Commerce Secretary Urges China to Collaborate on Global Challenges, including Climate Change and AI

US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo has called on China’s premier to collaborate on addressing global issues like climate change and the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). Raimondo’s visit to China is part of the United States’ recent efforts to ease tensions with the world’s second-largest economy.

During her discussions with senior Chinese officials, including Premier Li Qiang, Raimondo emphasized the importance of open communication between the two nations. She highlighted areas of global concern, such as climate change, AI, and the fentanyl crisis, while expressing the desire for both countries to work together for the benefit of humanity.

Raimondo reaffirmed that the US does not seek to disconnect its economy from China’s, rather aiming to maintain their $700 billion trade relationship for the stability of the overall relationship. She referred to the trade relationship between the two nations as one of the most important in the world.

While exhibiting the US’s commitment to protecting national security, Raimondo clarified that America does not intend to hinder China’s economic growth. In response, Vice Premier He Lifeng assured the willingness of Beijing to contribute to new positive efforts that foster economic consensus and enhance cooperation.

As part of her visit, Raimondo is scheduled to travel to Shanghai, China’s economic capital, before returning to the United States on Wednesday. The current state of US-China relations is at its lowest level in decades, largely due to US trade restrictions.

This month, President Joe Biden issued an executive order to restrict certain US investments in China’s sensitive high-tech sectors. Beijing views this move as anti-globalization. These restrictions, to be implemented next year, primarily affect industries such as semiconductors and AI.

Despite these restrictions, Raimondo’s trip signifies the US’s recognition of the need for open discussions with China regarding these policies. In a meeting between Raimondo and Commerce Minister Wang Wentao, they agreed to establish an information exchange aimed at reducing misunderstandings of US national security policies.

However, Wang expressed serious concerns about Washington’s trade restrictions on Chinese companies, including tariffs and discriminatory subsidies. While the US defends these policies as necessary for mitigating supply chain risks, Wang warned that they oppose market rules and the principle of fair competition, ultimately jeopardizing the security and stability of global industrial and supply chains.