The article discusses seven highlights related to US-China relations, covering topics such as internal political tensions in the US regarding tariffs, concerns over China's push for digital asset dominance, and strategies to counter China's influence in critical minerals.
The article presents an overview of significant developments in US-China relations from various overseas correspondents during the first half of February 2026. It highlights that President Donald Trump faced unusual resistance from his party regarding tariff policies as his approval ratings declined. This demonstrates a shifting political landscape, where legislators seem more emboldened to challenge the president amidst his faltering popularity.
Additionally, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent voiced concerns in a Senate Banking Committee about China’s ambitions in digital assets, indicating that China may already be exploring avenues to undermine the US's dominance in the digital financial realm. This hints at a broader geopolitical narrative where economic and technological leadership is contested, with the US striving to maintain its status as the principal hub for cryptocurrencies.
Furthermore, the article notes that the US is taking proactive steps to address China's control over critical mineral resources. At the first Critical Minerals Ministerial held in February, the US outlined strategies aimed at collaborating with its allies to reduce Beijing's influence in this vital sector, essential for technological advancements. This underscores the ongoing competitive tensions between the US and China and suggests that resource control will play a key role in future geopolitical strategies.
