[PDI Working Paper No.6] Multilateralism and Diplomacy of the Middle States in the Age of Strategic Competition between U.S. and China

Jae Woo Choo (Professor of Kyung Hee University, Director of China Research Center, KRINS)

 

Abstract:

It is true that the relationship between the U.S. and China has entered the era of strategic competition due to the U.S. coercion policy against China. However, it does not mean a competition for hegemony between the two countries. This is because the U.S. punishment against China is not carried out for the purpose and reason of undermining the foundation of the existing liberal international order.

Instead, it is the result of the U.S.’s patience with China’s undermining behavior to protect and keep the existing order. In other words, from the U.S. standpoint, it leaves room for the Communist Party of China to withdraw its coercive policy if it proves its willingness to change its behavior and the sincerity of its mind.

We currently support multilateralism between the United States and China. In maintaining this position, it is necessary to keep in mind the following strategic thinking as a mid-sized country.

First, the will to protect the liberal international order is the key. Here, China should not be misled by its protest against the U.S. punitive measures in the name of ‘multilateralism’ and ‘free trade’. This is because China itself is denigrating and undermining the foundations and values of multilateralism and free trade.

Second, it respects the basic values and ideologies of true multilateralism and complies with the system established based on this. True multilateralism requires punishment for selfishly abusing it. Multilateralism, in a lexicographical sense, is a diplomatic strategy and means welcomed by middle-sized countries like us. However, we must carefully examine the existence of values pursued by multilateralism in which the U.S. and China compete. It means what the goal is and what its intentions are.

Finally, our identity should prevent the dichotomy of our society due to strategic competition between the U.S. and China. As a result, our strategic choice between the United States and China seems inevitable for some time. However, we must bear in mind the fact that our national interests are not guaranteed without the protection of our values and ideologies. This is why wise choices based on this are important.