As the U.S. election campaign heats up, President Joe Biden and his likely challenger, Donald Trump, are vowing to take a tough stance on China. So, how does China feel about the race? VOA’s Bill Gallo asked Beijing residents to weigh in on the two candidates. Mingmin Xuan contributed.
The upcoming US presidential election is garnering attention in the bustling streets of Beijing, where the echoes of political discourse are often overshadowed by the hum of daily life.
As the world’s two largest economies, the relationship between China and the United States holds significant implications for global trade, diplomacy, and security.
Against this backdrop, the Chinese populace closely scrutinizes the positions adopted by President Joe Biden and his potential rival, Donald Trump, towards China.
Biden and Chinese President (Credits: Vox)
Voicing concerns over the trajectory of US-China relations, Beijing residents express a mix of apprehension and curiosity regarding the candidates’ competing visions.
With both Biden and Trump emphasizing a tough stance on China, there is a palpable sense of uncertainty about the future dynamics between the two nations.
Some Beijing residents view Biden’s approach cautiously, citing his extensive political experience and inclination towards multilateral diplomacy. They perceive Biden as a more predictable and pragmatic leader who may prioritize stability and dialogue in managing US-China relations.
However, others remain skeptical, pointing to Biden’s past involvement in policies perceived as unfavorable to China, such as his support for the Trans-Pacific Partnership. Conversely, some see Trump’s confrontational rhetoric and trade policies as a double-edged sword.
While Trump’s aggressive stance resonates with some who advocate for a more assertive stance against perceived Chinese trade abuses and intellectual property theft, others express concerns about the destabilizing impact of his unpredictable foreign policy approach.
Trump’s use of tariffs and trade sanctions has generated economic uncertainties, impacting industries and consumers in China and abroad.
Trump and Chinese President (Credits: Bangor Daily News)
Amidst these divergent perspectives, Beijing residents recognize the need for constructive engagement and mutual respect between the two nations.
Many emphasize the importance of dialogue and cooperation in addressing shared global challenges such as climate change, pandemic response, and nuclear proliferation.
The sentiments expressed by Beijing residents reflect broader sentiments within Chinese society, where discussions about the US election are closely followed through various media channels and social platforms.
As the election draws nearer, Chinese policymakers are closely monitoring the rhetoric and policy proposals of both candidates, assessing the potential implications for China’s national interests and global standing.
The US presidential election evokes a range of emotions and opinions among Beijing residents, reflecting the complexities of the US-China relationship.
While there is no consensus on which candidate would be more favorable to China, there is a shared desire for stability, cooperation, and mutual respect in navigating the intricacies of bilateral ties.
As the world watches the election’s outcome, the future trajectory of US-China relations remains uncertain, with implications extending far beyond both nations’ borders.
