http://www.news.cn/english/2021-11/09/c_1310300990.htm
The article talks about how the United States is planning on launching a global infrastructure program which is intended to counter some of China’s initiatives like their belt and road. Wang Wenbin, a foreign ministry spokesperson for the Chinese, believes there is wide room for global infrastructure cooperation and initiatives don’t have to oppose one another. Wang believes that countries focus on tearing down bridges between them when they should be focusing on building them and should seek win-win solutions rather than a “my way or the highway” approach. He also adds how their initiatives have shared benefits and built bridges between people and it would not be beneficial for the US to counter something of this nature.
This article is important because it showcases part of China’s intentions for their relationships with other countries like the United States. While many from the US definitely believe that China may be the reason that our relationship isn’t as strong as it could be with them, people from China probably believe the same about the US. It is a matter that the two nations need to address so that they can stay on the same page and not cause unnecessary problems that could lead to drastic outcomes.
This relates to what we discuss in class through the topic of powers of nations. The United States and China are two of the powerhouses in the world and need to keep each other in check. However, them disagreeing on topics can lead to them resolving their differences in dramatic ways which is something we don’t want. They need to make sure they are on the same page and that they don’t overstep one another. Wenbin is stating the ideal way we could live in harmony is if instead of always choosing to burn the bridge for one’s own sake, rather build one that benefits both sides, which is something that a lot of nations can stand to get behind.