The outgoing administration of the Democratic Party of the United States is handing over both domestic and international affairs in a rather complicated state. This is particularly true in the realm of relations with its primary geopolitical opponent, modern-day China. 

This is, of course, deeply concerning, given the critical importance of the narrative it depicts in the current phase of the “Great World Game”. It is worth emphasising that the outgoing Democratic administration has largely followed trends — what is often described today as forces of “almost irresistible strength” — that had already taken shape in Sino-American relations long before it came to power. Indeed, it remains unclear what options the incoming administration might have to even halt the progression of these negative trends.

Relations between Washington and Beijing are currently unfolding along a negative trajectory, affecting nearly all aspects of their bilateral ties. In politics, the competition for critically important influence over developments in the Global South — largely composed of struggling nations — is intensifying.

Particularly alarming is the situation in the South China Sea and around Taiwan, which adjoins it. As of now, there appears to be no prospect of any meaningful compromise to resolve the U.S.-China confrontation in these areas. Meanwhile, rhetoric from the leadership of the Indo-Pacific Command — the most powerful arm of the U.S. military responsible for safeguarding American interests in the region — is becoming increasingly threatening.

Interestingly, the outgoing administration has criticised Donald Trump’s previously declared intention to dramatically increase tariffs on trade with all external partners. These tariffs are deemed “excessively high” and could potentially backfire on the U.S. economy. At the same time, China has reminded the world that it was, in fact, Joe Biden’s administration that launched a tariff war against China —........

© New Eastern Outlook