Qin Gang countered the false narrative pushed by the United States that frames China as an aggressive, coercive pillager. The balloon incident, a supposed Chinese plan to sell arms to Russia and allegations that Beijing intends to attack Taiwan soon only feed misunderstanding.

It’s important to look at history when considering the current state of the China-U.S. bilateral relationship, or even the state of the world. And one legacy to look back on and learn from is that of former Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai. His wisdom and magnanimity are certainly virtues that diplomats from both sides of the Pacific should appreciate more today.

China’s next move is the subject of much speculation and worry for observers and enemies. The current conditions of today’s geopolitical stage should lead China towards its Southeast Asian neighbors in what may be its next international outreach campaign.

As an emerging power, China must cultivate a healthy national psyche, seeing not only from its own perspective but also that of others. It should do its own things well, balancing reform, development and stability. And it should work to reestablish positive relations with the U.S..

Competition with the United States has become a catalyst for change in the way China deals with countries in its own neighborhood. A sophisticated approach in Asia will be required as China balances all its interactions.

The Chinese foreign minister’s 10-day trip brought concrete answers that addressed the real needs of Pacific Island countries. But voices in the West continue to emphasize a negative view of China’s intentions — even trying to lock China and the United States into a cold war framework.

Antony Blinken may have coined the term “asymmetric decoupling” in his recent speech on the Biden administration’s China policy. The formerly abstract term seems to be the perfect way to describe China’s goal of becoming independent from the West while increasing the West’s dependence on China, a strategy that dates back to Emperor Qianlong’s time.

With the Winter Olympics bringing the world’s eyes to China, it seems that the stage is set for a major year of confrontation between rising China and the U.S., competing with rival benefit packages to draw third-parties away from their opponent.

China attaches great importance to Middle Eastern countries, with their range of ethnic and religious backgrounds, but its policies are based on right and wrong. It will not sacrifice its long-held principles and values.

China’s new Ambassador Qin Gang has arrived in Washington, DC, tasked with chipping away at the frosty relationship between America and his home country.