MEDIA REACTION: U.S.-CHINA RELATIONS, CLIMATE CHANGE

UNCLAS BEIJING 003056 DEPARTMENT FOR INR/R/MR, EAP/CM, EAP/PA, EAP/PD, C HQ PACOM FOR PUBLIC DIPLOMACY ADVISOR (J007) SIPDIS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: PREL ECON KMDR OPRC CH SUBJECT: MEDIA REACTION: U.S.-CHINA RELATIONS, CLIMATE CHANGE -------------- Editorial Quotes -------------- ¶1. U.S.-CHINA RELATIONS a. "Poll shows Americans both love and hate China" The official Communist Party international news publication Global Times (Huanqiu Shibao)(11/05)(pg 3): "Experts said that the [Thomson Reuters/Ipsos] poll, which was conducted right before Obama's visit to China, against the backdrop of the global financial crisis, trade disputes, and U.S.-China cooperation, shows the complicated view Americans have of China. Professor Wu Xinbo at Fudan University said that political elites in both countries should develop an accurate understanding of each other's strategic intentions, seek an objective point of view, and avoid exaggerating risks. By recognizing China's growing influence, the U.S. has pays increasing emphasis to the bilateral relationship. Meanwhile, the U.S. is wary of China because of the different political systems, ideologies and strategic interests. Ni Feng, an American studies expert at the Chinese Academy of Social Science, mentioned that the opinion of a poll, in fact, barely reflects the deeply bound feelings and reciprocal relationship of the U.S. and China." b. "U.S. compets with China for friends" The official Xinhua News Agency international news publication International Herald Leader (Guoji Xianqu Daobao)(11/05)(pg 4): "The United States' diplomatic offensive in Asia is actually a battle with China for friends. Obama, compared to previous U.S. administrations, has taken a smarter approach. One can see the milder U.S. approach concerning its attitude toward the North Korean nuclear issue and in its relations with Burma. The frequent diplomatic moves by the U.S. in Asia have shown the country's concern over China's growing influence in the region. The signing of a peaceful treaty with ASEAN aims at preventing the emergence of any regional organization that might exclude the U.S. How to deal with China's influence in Asia will be a challenge for Obama. Professor Shi Yinhong said that in any case, the U.S. and China will not directly confront each other but will only compete over their friends in Asia. This competition will be a competition of soft power the results of which will not be clear for 10 or 20 years." ¶3. CLIMATE CHANGE "Immediate action required to address climate change" Guangdong 21st Century Publishing Company Ltd.'s business newspaper 21st Century Business Herald (21Shiji Jingji Baodao)(11/05)(pg 1): "Currently, China has progressed further than the U.S. concerning climate change policy. China has shown a stronger determination in taking responsibilities or making practical decisions than the U.S. While scientists have unanimously urged developed countries to set up emission reduction targets at a range of 25%-40% less than their emissions in 1990, the American Clean Energy and Security Act, which is being reviewed by Congress, shows that the U.S. lacks sincerity in global cooperation. The bill weakens the capacity of the U.S. in international negotiations with China, India and other countries. One year has passed and the world is still waiting. Today, President Obama has become the greatest obstacle in the global combat against climate change. President Obama needs to put his words into action and make the United States a true pioneer. Now is the time for Obama to halt his clever but empty talk and take real action. President Obama himself needs to send a strong message to the U.S. and the world that the U.S. is ready to make a real promise on emission reduction. Such behavior will enable the U.S. to participate as a leader in climate change negotiations. The U.S. should also put offering financial support to developing countries at the top of their agenda." HUNTSMAN