The South China Morning Post (June 1) reported that a report released by the Chongyang
Institute for Finance Studies at Renmin University on May 29 said that China should give up
the “illusion” of avoiding competition with the United States, and even be prepared for the
worst-case scenario of possible military conflict, a Chinese think tank has advised, while also
urging Beijing to seek ways to reduce tensions. It said the war in Ukraine had intensified US
worries about and strategy against China, heightening the risk of an “all out” confrontation
between the two major powers. The report said, “To respond to US President Joe Biden’s allout competitive offensive, China should give up its illusions, and make every effort to guard
against the possibility of a final showdown of high-intensity military confrontation.” The report
also said that while adapting to the spike in bilateral tensions, China should also take the
initiative to shape ties with the US and seek “the possibility of cooperation between the two
nations”. It noted that the US had stepped up its strategy to “contain China” following Russia’s
invasion of Ukraine in late February, moving to strengthen ties with regional allies and selling
arms to Taiwan, which Beijing regards as a breakaway province that can be taken by force.
The report pointed out “The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has exacerbated the strategic
anxiety of the United States towards China. The United States has begun to accelerate the buildup of comprehensive strategic competition with China.”
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