As the Democratic Party secures a majority in both chambers of Congress during the U.S. midterm elections, the Chinese government has reiterated its commitment to the ongoing implementation of agreements between President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping.
During a regular briefing on November 4, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated, in response to a question about the midterm election results, "The U.S. midterm elections are an internal affair of the United States," emphasizing that China does not comment on the election outcomes. She added, "China is willing to continuously uphold and implement the important agreements made by the leaders of both countries." Mao also expressed intentions to enhance communication between the two nations, manage differences appropriately, and expand areas of cooperation. She reaffirmed the existing policy to develop a 'constructive strategic stability relationship' based on mutual respect and fairness.
U.S.-China relations have been sharply contentious since President Trump’s re-election, marked by high tariffs, export controls, and corporate sanctions. However, the two countries have held a series of summits since October of last year in Busan, followed by meetings in Beijing in May and Washington, D.C., in September, focusing on curbing the escalation of conflicts and stabilizing trade relations. Notably, the 'constructive strategic stability relationship' agreed upon in May and reaffirmed in September represents a new framework for bilateral relations that emphasizes mutual recognition of each other as equals and respect for core interests and major concerns, aiming to manage competition and conflict. China views this agreement as a significant achievement in its diplomacy towards the U.S.
The shift in power dynamics within the U.S. Congress due to the midterm elections may lead to increased congressional oversight of the Trump administration's policies toward China. While China has refrained from directly evaluating the election results, its emphasis on the implementation of agreements between the leaders is interpreted as a message to prioritize these agreements in managing bilateral relations, regardless of political changes in the U.S.
Meanwhile, Professor Diao Daming from Renmin University noted, "With Trump's domestic political standing weakened, he may pursue more transactional diplomacy to leave a diplomatic legacy. He might take risks in areas where he can exert control or achieve short-term results."
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.