The Need for a Floor in US-China Relations

In a debate about whether the United States and China are making progress in creating a floor in their relations, two experts presented opposing arguments. One expert argued that a floor is needed and that diplomacy and negotiation are necessary to manage tensions and avoid conflict. They emphasized the importance of building stronger deterrent capabilities, alliances, and economic measures to contain China's expansion and challenge to the current world order. The other expert disagreed, stating that Chinese President Xi Jinping does not want a floor and is preparing China for a long-lasting struggle against the United States. They highlighted China's belief that the United States is containing and undermining China's rise, and argued that the United States itself is not interested in a floor at the price demanded by China. Overall, while acknowledging the need for diplomacy and managing tensions, the experts disagreed on the current feasibility of establishing a floor in US-China relations.