Take steps to keep tensions from rising, DPM urges US and China

Vital to maintain open dialogue mechanism amid heated election campaigning in US

- Yew Lun Tian

As campaigning for the US presidential election intensifies, the US and China should take steps to prevent existing tensions from escalating, even if both are unlikely to agree on many areas for long-term cooperation, said Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat at an SPH Media event on Sept 3.

Speaking at the Lianhe Zaobao Conversation, part of SPH Media's Asia Future Summit 2024, DPM Heng said: "Is it possible for both sides to seek common ground and foster a mutually beneficial relationship amid competition? I believe the answer is yes."

He noted that in the heated campaigning ahead of the US election in November, candidates from both the Democratic Party and the Republican Party may point fingers at China.

"Therefore, maintaining an open dialogue mechanism and continuing to build strategic goals are an important way to ease tensions and seek cooperation," he said.

DPM Heng said he is encouraged by the recent meetings between leaders from China and the US, capped by US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan's visit to Beijing in August.

He added that the candidates for the US presidential election may be tempted to rile up voters by highlighting what they see as unfair trade practices; they may also implement protectionist trade measures after they get elected.