As the U.S. election campaign intensifies, both President Joe Biden and his anticipated challenger, Donald Trump, are pledging to adopt a tough stance on China.
This rhetoric has not gone unnoticed in Beijing, prompting VOA’s Bill Gallo to seek the perspectives of Beijing residents on the two candidates. Mingmin Xuan contributed to the inquiry.
In the vibrant streets of Beijing, where global politics intersect with everyday life, the upcoming U.S. presidential election is garnering attention.
As one of the world’s largest economies, China is interested in the race’s outcome, particularly its relationship with the United States.
Trump and Chinese President (Credits: Bangor Daily News)
With both Biden and Trump emphasizing a firm approach towards China, there is keen interest among Beijing residents in understanding how the election may impact bilateral relations.
Voicing a spectrum of opinions, Beijing residents offer insights into their perceptions of the two candidates and their respective policies towards China. Some express cautious optimism towards Biden, citing his experience in diplomacy and multilateralism.
They believe Biden’s approach may lead to more predictable and stable relations between the two countries, potentially fostering cooperation on shared global challenges.
Conversely, others view Trump’s confrontational rhetoric and policies toward China as a source of concern. While some appreciate his tough stance on issues such as trade and intellectual property rights, others fear the unpredictability and potential for escalation inherent in Trump’s approach to foreign policy.
Biden and Chinese President (Credits: Vox)
There is a recognition among Beijing residents that the outcome of the U.S. election will have significant implications for U.S.-China relations and global stability.
Many emphasize the importance of constructive engagement and dialogue between the two countries, regardless of who occupies the White House.
As the election campaign heats up, Beijing residents remain attentive to developments in U.S. politics, recognizing the interconnectedness of their lives with the broader geopolitical landscape.
Mingmin Xuan’s contributions to VOA’s inquiry highlight the diversity of perspectives within Beijing, underscoring the complexity of the U.S.-China relationship and the importance of understanding differing viewpoints in navigating future challenges and opportunities.
