Could China and the US be headed for an all-out confrontation?

Synopsis

China's newly appointed foreign minister, Qing Gang, warns that the U.S. approach of competition without conflict could lead to an all-out confrontation. At his first press conference, Qing criticizes Washington's policies, claiming they threaten Global Peace and escalate tensions over Taiwan and the war in Ukraine. He emphasizes that if the U.S. does not change its course, conflict is inevitable, stating that no amount of guard rails can prevent a derailment. This rhetoric reflects China's recognition of a prolonged competition with the U.S., which poses risks to its economic recovery and self-reliance in technology. Qing's comments come during the National People's Congress, where he defies expectations for a more conciliatory tone following recent diplomatic tensions, including the spy balloon incident.