Both China and the U.S. must engage in high-level talks to address mutual concerns and rebuild trust amid growing geopolitical tensions, said a U.S. media professional.
Talking to China Global Television Network (CGTN) on Nov. 21, Lionel Barber, former editor-in-chief of the Financial Times (FT) expressed concern over the escalating rhetoric between China and the U.S., urging both sides to engage in constructive dialogue to alleviate tensions.
"China has to be part of the solution. Again, my personal view is that the rhetoric in Washington is unhelpful. Some of it is hysterical. Some of this notion on both sides now, because both sides, there's a lot of mutual suspicion. There is this notion of victimhood, which is very unhealthy, we need to have a dialogue at the highest level sometimes in private, where you re-establish a basis of trust," said Barber.
Barber predicted that U.S. President-elect Donald Trump will raise tough issues and believes a careful approach is necessary.
"I hear that Mr. Trump does want to re-establish a dialogue at the highest level with China in order to set out positions. But he's going to make it difficult for the Chinese. But then China will have some issues to raise with the Americans. And then there will have to be a discussion. He will be very careful. I think he'll want to listen to what President Xi has to say. Are you clearly feeling strongly about this? He's going to listen," said Barber.
High-level talks between China-U.S. key to mitigate tensions: former FT editor-in-chief
