
New Delhi, September 21 (Daily Kiran) : Former diplomat Ashok Sajjanhar has emphasized the significance of the upcoming meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump, stating it is crucial for global politics and the economy. He noted that the United States is the largest economy in the world, while China ranks second. Therefore, discussions between these two leaders will have implications that extend beyond their nations, impacting the entire globe.
The competition between the U.S. and China is not limited to trade and economics; it also involves a struggle for global influence. Currently, the U.S. remains one of the most powerful nations, while China is actively working to enhance its position on the world stage through economic and strategic strength, aiming to establish itself as a major global power by 2049.
Sajjanhar acknowledged that while the meeting is significant, it is unlikely to result in any major agreements or declarations. Instead, both sides may focus on preventing deterioration in trade relations and maintaining economic cooperation. There may be pressure from the U.S. for China to increase its purchases of American agricultural products, aircraft, and other goods.
Discussing U.S. tariff policies, Sajjanhar pointed out that proposals, such as the 100 percent tariffs associated with Senator Lindsey Graham, could serve as a tool for President Trump to exert pressure during negotiations. He suggested that the U.S. might leverage this situation to secure better trade agreements. Conversely, President Xi may push for the U.S. to reduce or halt arms supplies to Taiwan. Additionally, the U.S. could pressure China to use its influence over Russia and Iran to help de-escalate existing conflicts and tensions.
Commenting on the complexities of U.S.-Iran relations, Sajjanhar noted that President Trump has issued stern warnings to Iran in the past, but the actual steps taken in the future remain to be seen. He highlighted that the impact of harsh economic measures often does not align with expectations.
On the topic of Houthi attacks and rising tensions in the Middle East, the former diplomat warned that assaults on critical infrastructure such as shipping, pipelines, and refineries could threaten global oil supply. If the situation worsens, it could significantly affect oil availability and prices in international markets. He mentioned the possibility of imposing 100 percent tariffs on countries buying oil from Russia, indicating that such measures could increase pressure on the global oil market, particularly impacting developing nations.
Sajjanhar concluded that the meeting between Xi and Trump becomes even more significant at a time when issues related to trade, Taiwan, Russia, Iran, and global energy security are interconnected. The discussions may lead to signals aimed at reducing tensions and maintaining stable trade relations rather than major agreements.
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