Xi Jinping Highlights Importance of China-US Relations in Condolence Message to Joe Biden
Chinese President Xi Jinping recently conveyed his condolences to US President Joe Biden over the passing of former US President Jimmy Carter, who died at the age of 100. Xi expressed his sadness in a message reported by Chinese state media on Monday, reflecting on Carter’s contributions to the establishment and development of China-US diplomatic relations. Xi emphasized that the relationship between the two countries remains "one of the most important" in the world.
Jimmy Carter, who served as the 39th president of the United States from 1977 to 1981, played a pivotal role in formalizing diplomatic ties between the United States and the People's Republic of China. This historic decision in 1979 marked a significant shift in global geopolitics, as Washington formally recognized Beijing over Taiwan. Chinese state broadcaster CCTV quoted Xi as acknowledging Carter’s instrumental role in shaping the modern China-US relationship and fostering cooperation between the two nations.
Carter’s presidency coincided with a transformative period in China, led by then-Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping. Deng's "Reform and Opening" policies, initiated in 1978, set the stage for China’s rapid economic growth and modernization. In the same year diplomatic relations were established, Deng visited the United States and met with Carter, underscoring the significance of this new chapter in bilateral relations. While Carter did not visit China during his presidency, he traveled to the country multiple times before and after his term in office, leaving a lasting impact on Sino-American ties.
Carter’s first visit to China was in 1949 as a young naval officer. Decades later, in 1981, shortly after leaving the White House, he met Deng Xiaoping and other Chinese leaders during a visit to Beijing. He continued to engage with China over the years, including a visit in 1997 when he spent time in a small village in Shandong province. These visits reflected Carter's deep interest in strengthening ties with China and understanding the country’s evolving dynamics.
In his message to Biden, Xi reiterated the importance of maintaining a healthy and stable relationship between China and the United States. He acknowledged the challenges and complexities in the bilateral relationship but emphasized the need for sustainable development and cooperation. CCTV quoted Xi as stating that China is willing to work with the US to ensure the relationship stays on the right track, benefiting both nations and the global community.
The message from Xi comes at a time when China-US relations face numerous challenges, including trade disputes, tensions over Taiwan, and differing approaches to global governance. However, Carter’s legacy serves as a reminder of the potential for diplomacy and mutual understanding to pave the way for progress.
As the world reflects on Carter’s life and achievements, his role in fostering China-US relations stands out as a testament to the power of dialogue and collaboration. Xi Jinping’s message not only honors Carter’s legacy but also highlights the enduring significance of the relationship between the world’s two largest economies. The focus on promoting stable ties underscores the importance of continued efforts to navigate challenges and find common ground in an increasingly interconnected world.
Refrence From: www.ndtv.com