Volume XXXIII – Number 2
Elizabeth Veal
Abstract: Relations between the United States and China represent a critical element of U.S. foreign policy. At first glance, these two ideologically divided states may have little in common. In reality, they share many interests, such as the desire for economic opportunity, which can best be served by working together. This article examines the options available to policy makers in their consideration of future U.S.-Sino economic relations. Economic ties between the two nations are assessed as an increasingly vital component of U.S.-Sino policy. Past policy limitations, such as a hostile U.S. policy towards China until the early 1970’s, as well as current policy limitations, such as the Asian financial crisis of 1997, are examined in order to show a deeper need to understand China’s economic perspective. Other topics examined include China’s fledgling economic movement away from communism, the potential of their entry into the World Trade Organization, and China’s Most Favored Nation Status. These topics are examined to form a greater appreciation for the factors that divide the U.S. and China.
Key Words: United States, China, Economics, Trade, Communism, Foreign Policy
