China has recently softened its stance on potential conflicts with the United States, stating that wars, whether trade or otherwise, should not occur as they are unwinnable. “The US must no longer seek to contain or go after China in the name of strategic competition,” said Lin Jian, a spokesperson for China’s Foreign Ministry. This response came after US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth remarked that while the US does not desire war with China, it is preparing its military for any eventuality.

US-China Trade Tensions

Earlier in the week, Lin had taken a firmer tone, asserting that intimidation and pressure tactics would not work on China. He warned that if the US pursued a war, whether tariff-based or otherwise, China was prepared to fight until the end. This statement was in reaction to US tariffs on Chinese goods. Meanwhile, Hegseth emphasised on Fox News that peace requires preparation for war, which is why the US is enhancing its military capabilities.

Hegseth further explained that President Donald Trump believes peace is achieved through strength and maintains a positive relationship with China’s leadership. He clarified that the US is not actively seeking conflict with China but is ensuring readiness through defence spending and strategic positioning in the Indo-Pacific region. “We don’t seek that war,” Hegseth stated. “But my job as secretary of defence is to make sure we’re ready.”

China’s Response to US Policies

Lin criticised Hegseth’s comments as promoting ideological confrontation and perpetuating a non-existent “China threat.” He urged the US to abandon its outdated Cold War mentality and recognise that China is not a hegemonic power like the US. The tensions between the two nations have escalated following Trump’s imposition of 10 per cent tariffs on Chinese exports, with threats of further increases.

In retaliation, China imposed an additional 15 per cent tariff on American goods and initiated legal proceedings against Washington at the World Trade Organization (WTO). These actions coincide with China’s annual parliamentary session attended by President Xi Jinping and nearly 3,000 legislators. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is expected to address these issues during a media briefing at the session.

Fentanyl Crisis and Blame Game

The fentanyl crisis has also been a point of contention between the two countries. Lin stated that the US is responsible for its fentanyl problem but acknowledged China’s efforts to assist America in addressing it. Despite this cooperation, Lin accused the US of vilifying China and using tariff hikes as leverage. “Instead of recognising our efforts, the US has sought to vilify and shift the blame to China,” he said.

Lin argued that such actions undermine counter-narcotics dialogue and cooperation between both nations. He highlighted that various sectors in the US have expressed gratitude for China’s assistance in tackling the issue. However, he warned that punitive measures against China would not resolve America’s problems.

The ongoing tensions reflect broader geopolitical dynamics between two major global powers. As both nations navigate these challenges, their actions will likely impact international trade and diplomatic relations significantly.