Friday, November 07, 2008

Hu Jintao and The US President-elect

Channel News Asia today released a news entitled ''Asian Leaders voice hopes for over Obama''. But I think the main focus on this news was the statement of China's President Hu Jintao. He hoped the bilateral ties between USA and China could reach more positive in higher level.

In George Walker Bush period, the bilateral ties between both countries often trapped in a tension. In this case, the most tangible issue is about Taiwan independence. Indeed, Bush Jr. affirmed that the US and his administration only recognized the One-China Policy. But as usual, USA always shows its double-standard policy by welcoming and maintaining communication with Taiwan. It triggered the profound reaction from Chinese Government.

On the other side, the very significant growth of China's economy has been a threaten for US, particularly in term of soft power. China ever touched annual economy growth about 9% which was contributed by the manufacture and agriculture sector that have grown rapidly. Certainly, it stimulates the increase in export. Many countries are currently experiencing the greater number of imports from China.

Now, Hu Jintao, like other country leaders, expected that the US President-elect Barrack Hussein Obama could bring the positive relations for his country. I think the statement was such an invitation for Obama to ameliorate the relations between two countries. Obama must consider seriously this opportunity. Moreover, the closer ties between China and the US would bring the positive effect on world economy, particularly in term of stability. Once again, Obama must pay the invitation seriously.

Andi Kurniawan
Alumnus International Relations Program
2001, Jember University

No comments: