Biden vows to counter China's Belt and Road Initiative with G7 infrastructure projects

US President Joe Biden has announced plans to compete with China's Belt and Road Initiative through a network of infrastructure projects, including a railroad connecting Saudi Arabia with Europe.

Washington: The United States is working with other G7 members to compete with China's Belt and Road Initiative through a network of infrastructure projects, including a railroad connecting Saudi Arabia with Europe, President Joe Biden has said. On the sidelines of the G20 Summit in September, key leaders of the world led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Biden had announced the launch of the ambitious India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.

Biden: US Not Looking for Conflict with China

Biden said that his previous comment of extreme competition with China was not conflict. "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," he said in response to another question. Albanese is headed to China next month. Biden was asked "What do you make of China's re-engagement with Australia?" and "Can Australia trust Beijing, and can Australia do business with China?"

Biden: China's Economic Growth is Stagnant

"Trust but verify is the phrase. And look, China is having their 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," Biden said.

Biden: US-China Competition Should Not Lead to Conflict

Biden emphasized that competition with China should not lead to conflict. "I'm not looking for conflict. I'm looking for competition. I'm looking for us to be able to work together where we can and to stand up for our values where we must," he said. Biden also highlighted the importance of the Quad, a coalition of Japan, India, Australia, and the United States, in maintaining stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Biden's statements reflect the Biden administration's focus on countering China's growing influence and maintaining a balance of power in the Indo-Pacific region. The US is seeking to engage with allies and partners to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific, while also emphasizing the importance of competition without conflict with China.