The United States is actively collaborating with fellow G7 nations to counter China's Belt and Road Initiative through a comprehensive network of infrastructure ventures. This extensive endeavor encompasses projects such as the construction of a railway linking Saudi Arabia with Europe, according to President Joe Biden.
During the G20 Summit in September, a significant announcement was made regarding the launch of the ambitious India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor. Notable global leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Biden, were involved in this announcement.
"We are going to compete on that (Belt and Road Initiative), and we're doing it in a different way. The Belt and Road Initiative has ended up in debt and a noose for most of the people (nations) who have signed on," commented President Biden during a news conference in the Rose Garden, where he was joined by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on an official visit.
The President emphasized that they are collaborating with their G7 partners to offer infrastructure support to these nations. The Group of Seven (G7) consists of the United Kingdom, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the United States.
In response to a query, President Biden elaborated, "We want to, for example, at the G20, we were able to act on a proposal to build a railroad all the way from Riyadh all the way through the Middle East, Saudi Arabia, Israel, up through Greece, and not the railroad, but pipeline across the Mediterranean up into Europe."
Regarding the concept of "extreme competition" with China, President Biden clarified that this doesn't imply conflict. He stated, "I talked about how we're going to compete with China in every way according to the international rules, economically, politically, and other ways, but not -- I'm not looking for conflict."
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is set to visit China in the coming month. President Biden was queried about China's renewed engagement with Australia and whether Australia can place its trust in Beijing and engage in economic activities with China.
The President replied, "'Trust but verify' is the phrase. And look, China is having its own internal and external difficulties right now. China's economic growth is stagnant compared to what it was. China has engaged in activities that Russia and many other activities have -- that others have engaged in terms of intimidation and dealing with other countries."
President Biden recalled his extensive interactions with Chinese President Xi Jinping, emphasizing their profound discussions that spanned over 68 hours of private meetings. He also highlighted the importance of preserving open sea lanes and international rules in defining airspace and water space.
The President underscored the significance of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, known as the Quad, which comprises Japan, India, Australia, and the United States. The Quad plays a pivotal role in maintaining stability and security in various regions, including the Taiwan Straits and the Indian Ocean. This coalition serves to counter China's assertive behavior in the Indo-Pacific area.
The United States' request for $3.4 billion in supplementary funds to bolster submarine production and maintenance, supporting the AUKUS pact – a trilateral alliance between the UK, US, and Australia – was also mentioned by President Biden. This alliance aims to counter China's assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in the South China Sea.
In essence, the United States is strategically aligning with its international partners to provide an alternative approach to China's Belt and Road Initiative, emphasizing economic competitiveness, adherence to international norms, and regional stability in the face of global challenges.
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