In the context of rising tensions between the United States and China, there is a growing discourse on the need for a balanced approach to development and security. Zhang Ming, deputy director of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, has recently emphasized that prioritizing security over development could lead to a 'trap,' asserting that 'there is no security without development.' He advocates for maintaining a balance between high-quality development and high-level security, particularly as the US navigates its rivalry with China. Zhang's insights come amid indications that US president-elect Donald Trump's cabinet choices may signal a tougher stance on China, which could further complicate bilateral relations.
Zhang also highlights the importance of managing relationships with various countries and calls for the construction of a unified national market to foster common development. He stresses the need to support small- and medium-sized enterprises and to increase incomes for low- and middle-income families as part of China's economic strategy. Premier Li Qiang has echoed this sentiment, advocating for the opening up of China's market to bolster economic growth.
In light of these developments, the United States is urged to learn from China's effective matrixed investments and the lessons from its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), while ensuring that its own development efforts align with liberal values. The US can leverage its firms and local partnerships to enhance economic outcomes while incorporating necessary security stipulations in its planning. This balanced approach could potentially lead to more effective strategies in great power competition, ensuring that national security and economic development are pursued in concert [69ed7c71] [8bba520a] [ebda33f9].