As the United States grapples with China’s rising influence, a new strategy emerges to reshape global dynamics and maintain America’s leadership role.
At a Glance
- A cooperative security approach is proposed to address challenges posed by China’s ascent
- Traditional power instruments are deemed insufficient for modern international issues
- The US aims to leverage liberal multilateral institutions to reshape China’s global influence
- Diplomacy and institutional engagement are key to aligning state preferences with US interests
- Maintaining military dominance and strengthening alliances remain crucial components of the strategy
A New Approach to US-China Relations
As China’s economic and political influence continues to grow, the United States finds itself at a crossroads in its foreign policy approach. Traditional instruments of power are proving insufficient to address the complex challenges posed by a rising China in today’s interconnected global landscape. In response, a grand strategy of cooperative security is being proposed to navigate this new era of international relations.
This innovative strategy aims to integrate national power into policies that maximize gains while minimizing expenses. By leveraging liberal multilateral institutions, the US seeks to reshape and bound China’s growing influence on the world stage. The approach recognizes that China’s economic power is deeply integrated into the global economy, further strengthened by initiatives like the One Belt, One Road project.
Diplomacy and Institutional Engagement
At the heart of this new strategy is a focus on diplomatic cooperation through international institutions aligned with liberal ideals. The United Nations is identified as a key forum for negotiation, where the US can advocate for open trade, transparency, and other liberal interests. Regional organizations like ASEAN are also seen as important platforms to exert pressure on China to adhere to a liberal world order.
“Chinese leaders have stated that they are ready and willing to influence international institutions to pursue national interests.” – Maj Matthew Small
This statement underscores the importance of the US taking a proactive stance in shaping these institutions to align with its own interests and values. By engaging China as a potential partner through these institutions, the US aims to achieve stability and prosperity while expanding its influence through cooperative power.
Regulating Technology and Finance
The strategy also calls for institutionalizing internet governance to regulate technology in line with liberal norms. This approach recognizes the growing importance of cyberspace in international relations and seeks to establish rules that protect US interests. Similarly, financial institutions are seen as tools to combat closed spheres of influence and promote economic interdependence, which can serve as a deterrent to conflict.
Nonproliferation institutions offer another avenue for US-China cooperation, particularly in dealing with challenges like North Korea’s nuclear program. By finding common ground on such issues, the US hopes to build a foundation for broader cooperation while still maintaining its strategic objectives.
Balancing Cooperation and Competition
While emphasizing cooperation, the strategy does not neglect the importance of maintaining a dominant military force. The US must leverage alliances like NATO for burden-sharing and to present a united front against potential aggression. However, the approach aims to regulate pressure on China to prevent outright conflict while keeping Beijing integrated into the global economy.
Grand bargaining is proposed as a diplomatic means to manage this delicate balance, providing a framework for negotiation that can help prevent misunderstandings and reduce the risk of confrontation. The ultimate goal is to sustain a liberal world order with the US at its helm, countering China’s rise through institutional leadership rather than direct confrontation.
Looking Ahead
As the US embarks on this new strategy, success will depend on its ability to navigate the complex web of international institutions, alliances, and economic relationships. By leveraging its diplomatic prowess and institutional influence, America aims to shape a future where it can coexist with a rising China while maintaining its position as a global leader. The path forward is challenging, but with careful execution, this cooperative security approach may offer the best chance for stability and prosperity in an increasingly multipolar world.
Sources:
- The Challenge of a Rising China to US National Security
- China Is Already Trying to Dictate Terms to Trump
