U.S. Relations with the People's Republic of China (2005)

U.S. Department of State

A Renewed Partnership for Global Engagement

R. Nicholas Burns, Under Secretary for Political Affairs
Remarks at the European Institute Annual Gala Dinner
Mayflower Hotel, Washington, DC
December 15, 2005

REMARKS AS PREPARED

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An Agenda for 2006

Our agenda for 2006 is three-fold:

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3) To cooperate in every region of the world, through political, economic and security partnerships.

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Iran: Iran is pursuing a radical course through its pursuit of a nuclear weapons capability; its notoriety as the world's leading supporter of terrorist groups; and through the deplorable treatment of its own people.

President Bush and Secretary Rice have noted publicly our support for the EU-3's diplomatic negotiations with Iran, and we are working closely with the Europeans, Russia, India, China and other countries with the hope of forming one increasingly united and purposeful coalition to deter Iran's efforts. This circle of countries is widening and Iran is increasingly isolated. Iran should listen to the call for it to return to active and sustained negotiations with Europe.

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Asia: Countries like Australia, Japan, and South Korea are already engaged with us and our European Allies across the globe, and we will look to work increasingly closely with them in 2006. America and Europe, however, need to develop a strategic consensus on how to engage a rising India and China.

The United States is a Pacific power and we have serious concerns about the buildup of China's military forces. As the principal guarantor of peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region, we will continue to clearly and pointedly let Europe know that lifting the embargo would be detrimental to security in that region, and has implications for our trans-Atlantic partnership. Through our strategic dialogue on security in the Asia-Pacific region, we hope Europe will raise its sights.

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Released on December 23, 2005