Sino-U.S Relations in the Post-9/11 Era: Cooperation Or Conflict?

Abstract

The U.S – China relations experienced various phases of confrontation, and cooperation, hostility and partnership since the communists took over in People’s Republic of China. During the Cold War period when the world was divided into two camps, China was seen upon with enmity by the United States. Bogged down in the Vietnam War, the tired looking U.S finally started to drift from its hostile attitude towards China and recognized communist regime in 1971. This American approach lasted only two decades and immediately after the disappearance of the Soviet Union, the U.S started to consider China, a threat to world peace. However, the events of 9/11 brought China and U.S close to each other but there are some conflicting signals in this mega bilateral relationship which may bring two powers into a direct military clash.