US-China tech war: Beijing gives muted response to newest US initiative to redefine the country’s approach to global competition
- Chinese officials have stayed mum on US Strategic Competition Act of 2021, legislation that could signal paradigm shift
- Analysts say China has adopted measured response but counterpunch could follow
China has given new US Senate legislation designed to contain its tech rise a relatively muted response, despite a warning from some analysts that the move represents a paradigm shift in relations.
The US Strategic Competition Act of 2021, presented to Congress last Thursday, defines areas of long-term competition with China, including technology, geopolitical issues, the economy and the military.
Although China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Zhao Lijian said last Friday that the country is opposed to the bill, Chinese officials have otherwise been largely silent on the matter.
“I reiterate that China is committed to developing a relationship with the US featuring non-conflict, non-confrontation, mutual respect and win-win cooperation,” the spokesman said at a regular press conference.
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Beijing’s measured response to the legislation comes amid China’s recent war of words with the West on several other issues, such as democracy in Hong Kong and the treatment of Uygurs in Xinjiang. Chinese state media have been relatively restrained, with China Daily running an editorial and tabloid Global Times publishing an analysis.