Progressive candidate Tim Walz, the Democratic Party’s vice presidential nominee, has a unique perspective on China. With his experience teaching in China during the 1990s and running a business closely tied to the nation, Walz has visited China over 30 times – a record that surpasses most U.S. politicians. This article delves into Walz’s views on China and examines the reactions from both Republicans and Chinese citizens regarding his foreign policy stance.
Walz has been vocal about his concerns regarding China’s trade policies, which have negatively impacted manufacturers in the United States. He has pledged to advocate for new tariffs on Chinese goods to level the playing field in trade.
However, it is important to note that Walz does not completely oppose China. In August, he expressed his willingness to collaborate with China in addressing the North Korean nuclear crisis. The United States seeks to pressure North Korea into denuclearization and believes that China plays a significant role in supporting the regime.
Despite Walz’s appreciation for China, some Republicans criticize his stance as naive and potentially detrimental to U.S. interests. Senator Marco Rubio, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, raises concerns that Walz’s policies would allow continued economic manipulation by China against the United States. On the other hand, some observers commend Walz for being open to dialogue with Beijing and working together.
While trade issues with China are at the forefront of Walz’s focus, other members of Congress are also turning their attention towards broader foreign policy concerns related to Chinese investment activities in strategic assets within America. In October, two members of Congress – one Republican and one Democrat – introduced legislation called Banning Chinese Investment and Expanding Congressional Oversight Act of 2018. This bill aims to restrict Chinese firms from investing in key U.S assets such as airports and utilities while imposing stricter oversight on all Chinese investment activities within America.
However, some observers argue that unsuccessful attempts by the United States to isolate China could have negative consequences overall. Driven by negative sentiment towards Beijing’s actions, these efforts may end up doing more harm than good according to Dr.Chen Weihua’s opinion piece published in The Washington Times . Chen suggests seeking cooperation rather than confrontation or escalation with an “overestimated” authoritarian government like that ofChina.
Furthermore,theChinese Communist Party (CCP) is taking steps towards addressing concerns driving negative sentiment towardsChina.The CCP has expressed its willingnessto tacklethe opioid crisisandhas implemented measures limiting fentanyl exportsstotheUnitedStates.Additionally,the CCP refutes claims suggesting neocolonialisminAfrica,statingthatits aid programs contribute positivelytoinfrastructure developmentandeconomic growthonthecontinent.
