China and Russia’s maligned relationship looks on the surface to be a new axis of power against the U.S. - but by playing it safe, China seeks to reap the benefits of Russia’s favor without offending the West.

China and Europe look forward to more stable relations. But transcending the European-style de-risking narrative will take some doing. As frictions arise, the strategic definitions and political wisdom of both sides will be tested.

The U.S. administration under President Joe Biden crafted its approach in two phases. First, it considered China’s capabilities, and then it combined that capability with a presumed intent, believing that China’s intent is to alter the existing international system. That conclusion is built on a weak foundation.

China topics have receded somewhat as Americans are distracted by Trump antics, immigration, Ukraine and other matters. But the anti-China rhetoric is bound to heat up again as the year progresses and Republicans claw for any political advantage they can find.

Five critical challenges present themselves in the post-San Francisco summit era: Taiwan, geopolitics, dialogue mechanisms, American elections and the U.S. view of strategic competition. Be prepared for a potentially bumpy ride in 2024.

The 10th Beijing Xiangshan Forum covered all aspects of the Global Security Initiative, with official representatives and scholars from China and foreign countr

When Chinese President Xi Jinping met with US President Joe Biden last fall, some interpreted it as a return to engagement. In fact, it heralded only a minor détente, not a major change in policy.

While some good things have emerged, the foundation is not yet strong enough. Relations may be warming but no one is scorched by the heat. The overall temperature remains cool. Washington won’t be changing its policy of competition, and political rhetoric during the coming U.S. presidential election year will only add complexity.

The Biden-Xi meeting in San Francisco was undoubtedly going to lead to new developments in cross-Pacific relations, but one month after the meeting the overall climate between the two rivals has yet to change.

The recent EU-China Summit marked a cautious step forward in their relationship, underlining a growing willingness to constructively engage. While substantive policy changes remain elusive, both sides acknowledged concerns and showed openness to dialogue, hinting at a potential path for future negotiations and trust-building.