December 14, 2022
Don’t Force Europe to Choose Between the United States and China
During his first trip to Europe in March 2021, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken reassured Europeans that “the United States won’t force our allies into an ‘us or them’ choice with China.” Although this remains the United States’ stated policy, Washington’s actions have not matched the rhetoric. This is a mistake.
To succeed in a competition with China, the United States should focus on coordinating policies with Europe, rather than insisting that its transatlantic allies adopt identical policies. Instead of unnecessarily injecting friction into the relationship, Washington should develop complementary and coordinated approaches in those areas most central to its competition with China.
The United States’ not-so-secret weapon in the China-U.S. competition is its network of allies and partners. However, to bring Europe along, Washington can’t resort to bullying tactics.
Despite Blinken’s reassurance, the United States has grown more assertive in pressing Europe to adopt its approach to China. On October 7, the United States imposed restrictions on semiconductors to China. While the United States consulted the Netherlands and Japan, they ultimately failed to reach an agreement in which they would all impose identical restrictions prior to Washington introducing restrictions.
Read the full article from The Diplomat.
More from CNAS
-
A Night of NATO at the National Archives
Podcast
Just a few weeks ago, leaders from across the globe gathered in Washington, D.C. for the historic 75th NATO summit. Over the course of the three-day event, allies engaged in d...
By Jim Townsend & Andrea Kendall-Taylor
-
75 Years of NATO: Key Takeaways from the Washington Summit
Podcast
Last week, Washington, DC hosted the NATO summit – marking the historic 75th anniversary of the alliance. Despite the significant milestone, the mood was serious in DC with th...
By Jim Townsend & Kate Johnston
-
Air defence package for Ukraine could work alongside F-16s to halt Putin's attacks
Video
Jim Townsend joins Frontline on Times Radio to discuss how further U.S. air defense systems for Ukraine and Nato drills will be key to sending a message that Nato is committed...
By Jim Townsend
-
Sharper: NATO Summit
Commentary
The 75th NATO Summit was held in Washington DC, last week, and brought together leaders and governments to discuss pressing issues facing the world's oldest alliance. A bridge...
By Anna Pederson
