(Washington) The United States wants to have a “ constructive and equitable ” economic relationship with China, without however compromising on national security issues, according to US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen on Thursday during a speech at the Johns Hopkins University in Washington.
“We seek a healthy economic relationship with China: one that promotes growth and innovation in both countries. A growing China that respects international rules is good for the United States and the world,” said Joe Biden’s Minister of Economy and Finance, according to excerpts from his speech published upstream.
However, she assured that the United States will not “(will) not compromise” on national security concerns, “even when they force compromises with our economic interests”.
Beijing had, last month, accused Washington of stoking tensions between the two powers, and had warned of the risk of “conflict”.
China and the United States are notably engaged in a fierce battle for the manufacture of semiconductors, these electronic components essential to the operation of smart phones, connected cars, but also military equipment. In the name of national security, Washington has increased sanctions against Chinese chipmakers in recent months.
“These national security actions are not designed to allow us to gain competitive economic advantage or to stifle China’s economic and technological modernization. Even though these policies may have economic impacts, they are motivated by simple national security considerations,” Yellen said.
A historic fine of 300 million dollars was thus imposed on Wednesday on a supplier of the Chinese giant Huawei – in the sights of Washington for reasons of cybersecurity and suspicions of espionage.
In addition, “ we will continue to join forces with our allies to respond to China’s unfair economic practices ”, further warned Joe Biden’s minister.
Recent remarks by French President Emmanuel Macron had raised questions among France’s allies, including the United States.
Back from China, he called on the Europeans not to be “ followers ” on Taiwan with regard to Beijing or Washington as well as to “ less depend on the Americans ” in terms of defense, then had, a few days later, pleaded for greater economic autonomy in Europe.
“ Macron, who is a friend, is with China licking his ass ”, commented former President Donald Trump, who had started a trade war against China in 2019, when he was at home. -White.
