Expert Criticizes US Decoupling Efforts, Emphasizes Need for China-US Cooperation

Former US Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell recently commented on the US's economic relationship with China. In an interview, he stated that diversifying US dependence on China for rare earths and other supply chains would take a generation. He also acknowledged the interdependence between the two countries, recognizing their significant economic, commercial, and strategic ties.

Campbell, however, framed this interdependence as a gradual decoupling. He attempted to defend efforts by the previous government to reduce US economic reliance on China, admitting the difficulty of diversifying supply chains. He also expressed concern about the current US administration's tariff policies, particularly their impact on allies and China, suggesting a lack of long-term strategy.

A Chinese expert responded to Campbell's remarks, emphasizing that the very idea of decoupling contradicts the current state of China-US relations and misinterprets global trends. The expert argued that any form of decoupling would ultimately harm both countries, highlighting the strong economic complementarity between them. They stressed that mutual cooperation is essential for the health of the global economy.

The expert further noted that the US should resolve trade disputes with China through equal dialogue and mutually beneficial cooperation. They emphasized the importance of both countries honoring their commitments and demonstrating sincerity in implementing consensus to safeguard the outcomes of dialogue.

In an article co-authored earlier, Campbell warned of the fluctuating American assessment of China. He noted shifts from pessimism to overconfidence, highlighting the risk of underestimating China's power. The expert concluded that the US's radical policies towards China are often based on misinterpretations and a flawed understanding of bilateral relations and international trends. They urged American politicians to cultivate reflection, equality, and a better understanding of the world to foster mutually beneficial ties.