Thread by @BonnieGlaser

A quick thread on Blinken's visit to China -- Day 1: The readouts by both sides are fairly positive --more positive than I expected. The PRC readout says "China is committed to building a stable, predictable, and constructive China-U.S. relationship." That's important. 1/n

The US readout says "Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken held candid, substantive, and constructive talks today with People’s Republic of China (PRC) State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang in Beijing." No mention of "cooperative," but still positive. 2/n

The PRC notes 5 things that both sides agreed to. These are not deliverables, but they are important. 1) jointly implement the impt consensus reached at the summit btw the heads of state in Bali, effectively manage differences, promote dialogue, communication, and cooperation.

2) maintain high-level exchanges. Secretary Blinken invited State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang to visit the United States, and Qin Gang expressed willingness to visit the United States at a mutually convenient time. 4/n

3) Both sides agreed to continue the consultations on the principles guiding China-U.S. relations. 4) Both sides agreed to continue the consultations of the China-U.S. Joint Working Group to address specific issues in the bilateral relationship. 5/n

5) Both sides agreed to encourage the expansion of cultural & educational exchanges, actively explore increasing passenger flights..,welcome more students, scholars, & business people to visit each other's countries, & provide support & convenience for such visits. 6/n

It appears there was a full airing of concerns on both sides. The PRC readout unsurprising emphasizes Taiwan. The US readout notes standing up for the interests of values of the American people and advancing a world that is free, open based on a rules-based order. 7/n

Blinken raised "opportunities to explore cooperation on shared transnational issues with the PRC where our interests align." There is no mention of cooperation in the PRC readout. 8/n

Expectations were low for this visit. So far it appears to have gone fairly well. Both sides seek to stabilize bilateral ties. Blinken will meet with Wang Yi on Monday, and probably with Xi Jinping as well. That will be the most important meeting, if it occurs. 9/9 END