Incoming US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz Confirms Continuation of Biden's China Policy Elements

Mike Waltz, the incoming US National Security Advisor, has signalled the continuation of several policies concerning China and the Indo-Pacific region. Speaking at the US Institute of Peace, Waltz, who will assume his role when Donald Trump is inaugurated as the 47th US president on January 20, identified China as the "greatest advisory" to the US and highlighted India's importance as a future partner.

"The President-elect firmly believes we can avoid conflict with the Chinese Communist Party because they need our markets. We are going to use the leverage in a way that's in line that we have that's in line with our national security while we still can," Waltz stated during a panel discussion with outgoing NSA Jake Sullivan.

Continuity in Alliances and Partnerships

Waltz emphasised that initiatives like AUKUS and Quad will persist across administrations. He noted the importance of supply chain security and addressing Taiwan's defence needs, mentioning a USD 20 billion backlog of military equipment that needs to be delivered to Taiwan as a deterrent measure.

He also stressed reinforcing alliances, particularly the trilateral dialogues involving South Korea, Japan, and the Philippines. These efforts aim to overcome historical tensions and promote a shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

Sullivan echoed Waltz's sentiments on continuity. "I agree with basically everything Mike just laid out. I would say a good China strategy is a good Asia strategy," he said. Sullivan highlighted the importance of building on existing alliances and partnerships in Asia, which were inherited and further developed by the current administration.

Focus on Technology and Economic Practices

Sullivan also addressed technology's role in national security. He stressed the need for domestic investments to maintain leadership in key technologies. The CHIPS and Science Act's science component remains underfunded, he noted, emphasising America's tradition of investing in research to drive innovation.

On economic practices, Sullivan pointed out China's challenges and underscored the importance of engaging with European allies to counter unfair Chinese economic activities. He mentioned efforts to ensure high technologies with national security applications are safeguarded from misuse by China or its allies.

Waltz also mentioned his previous role as Republican chair of the US-India Caucus in Congress. Sullivan remarked on Waltz's popularity in India, noting his recent visit there. "I was just in India last week. They love you there as a co-chair of the India Caucus," Sullivan said humorously.

Both Waltz and Sullivan agreed on India's critical role in future partnerships. Waltz reiterated India's significance, stating it would remain a crucial partner for the US moving forward.

The discussions at the US Institute of Peace highlighted continuity in US foreign policy regarding China and Indo-Pacific strategies. Both Waltz and Sullivan emphasised maintaining strong alliances and partnerships while addressing technological advancements and economic challenges posed by China.