Dear Focus Reader,

In the latest of a series of high-level dialogues between Washington and Beijing, U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo concluded her recent trip to China where she met with some key Chinese officials, including Li Qiang and Wang Wentao. In their talks, Raimondo called for collaboration with China on AI, climate change, and the fentanyl crisis, and expressed American firms' desire to do business in China, as well as some of their concerns over potential risks. She also discussed her hopes for further engagement with Chinese officials on market access.

Overall, the trip was viewed as successful and productive by both countries and produced some tangible outcomes, including the establishment of the first U.S.-China commercial, trade, and investment working group of Joe Biden's presidency.

A Chinese readout from the meeting stated that China is ready to engage, work, and cooperate with the U.S. on trade and investment, and that failure to do so would have a "disastrous impact on the global economy." Beijing also noted that it hopes "the United States will meet China halfway."

This week, Chinese President Xi Jinping also praised former American General Joseph Stilwell in a letter to his grandson, John Easterbrook, in response to a note Easterbrook recently sent Xi. He called Stillwell an "old friend" of China and acknowledged his significant contributions to China's liberation and progress during World War II. Xi also emphasized the importance of people-to-people connections and called for increased exchanges, deeper understanding, and expanded cooperation between the Chinese and American people to strengthen bilateral relations.

In the meantime, we encourage you to catch up on our latest Focus content, including articles and videos covering Washington's China policy, the future of the China-U.S. relationship, and China's role in the Russia-Ukraine war.

Thanks to all who continue to support our platform. Have a great weekend!

Team Focus