On November 10th, 2020, China General Chamber of Commerce - USA (CGCC) hosted a timely webinar titled: “Post-Election Conversation: What’s Next for U.S. - China Relations?”. Nearly 100 guests from CGCC board member companies joined the session.
Moderated
by Peter Reisman, Co-Chair of the CGCC Government and Public Relations Committee,
and Managing Director at Bank of China USA, the webinar convened a panel of
experts to discuss the future of the U.S.-China relationship post-2020 U.S.
Election. The panel of experts included: Ambassador Max Baucus, Former U.S.
Ambassador to China, Former U.S. Senator from Montana; Mr. Bryan Lanza, Partner
at Mercury’s Washington D.C. Office, Former Communications Director for
President Donald J. Trump’s Transition Team; and Mr. Michael Borden, Partner at
Sidley Austin LLP.
During
the panel, speakers shared their anticipation and predictions regarding the
bilateral relationship and how the post-election dynamic might help shape its
development. Ambassador Baucus believes the election result “is positive in the
mid-term and long-term” for the U.S. and China “so long as both sides exercise
good faith, pursuit solutions, and mutual self-respect.”
Mr. Lanza indicated that with the arrival of a new administration in January, there will be a change of tone in the relationship, with the U.S. acting“less confrontational” towards China. Nevertheless, all panelists agreed that the U.S. will continue to treat China as a competitor, specifically in areas like science and technology.
Additionally, the panel reminded CGCC member companies about the potential turbulences during the transitional period and offered advice for strategic responses. “We are entering a very unpredictable time,” said Mr. Borden, “between now and January 20th, there is a lot the President can do without Congress.” Mr. Lanza also indicated that during the next few months, President Trump is likely to be more aggressive on policies related to China. He suggested that Chinese companies in the U.S. should “lean in” and have their voices heard. Ambassador Baucus also expressed that “engaging with your state senators,” and “follow-ups” after an initial meeting are very important.
CGCC extends great appreciation to all the panelists and participants for their support in making the event a success.