Inflection point calls for change of approach by Washington

Speaking at the Brookings Institution on Monday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken offered some food for thought on what truly hinders the healthy development of Sino-US ties.

In the 54-minute conversation between Blinken and Brookings President Cecilia Rouse, and some members of the audience, China was mentioned at least 24 times. In comparison, Russia was mentioned 17 times, indicating which country is the major concern in Washington and US think tank circles.

With the NATO summit in Washington around the corner, Blinken took advantage of the occasion to explain why the United States has invited four of its Asia-Pacific allies-Australia, New Zealand, Japan and the Republic of Korea — to the gathering. Citing challenges from China, he made it clear that the US attaches great significance to integrating its Atlantic and Pacific security networks.