Robert Daly’s eclectic resume points to a deep expertise in US-China relations. Currently serving as the director of the Kissinger Institute on China and the United States at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, he is well-positioned to provide insights into the increasingly complicated dynamics between these two global superpowers.

During recent seminars at Steamboat, Daly emphasized the growing aggression displayed by China on several fronts. The seminars delve into the strategic, economic, and political challenges that this behavior poses for the United States and its allies. According to Daly, the Chinese government's assertive actions in the South China Sea, along with its expansive Belt and Road Initiative, demonstrate a clear intention to reshape global power structures.

Daly pointed out that China's military modernization and regional dominance efforts are significant concerns for US policymakers. The country's development of advanced weaponry, including hypersonic missiles and stealth fighters, represents a direct challenge to US military superiority. Furthermore, China's extensive cyber capabilities pose substantial risks to American national security and economic interests.

Economically, China’s strategy focuses on becoming self-sufficient in key industries while also dominating emerging technologies. Daly noted that significant investments in artificial intelligence, green technology, and semiconductor manufacturing indicate China's desire to reduce dependence on foreign technology. This, in turn, threatens American economic interests and influences global supply chains.

Politically, China's human rights abuses, including the situation in Xinjiang and the suppression of freedoms in Hong Kong, strain its relationships with Western democracies. Daly highlighted that the US must navigate these issues while maintaining a balance between competition and cooperation. This is especially pertinent in areas like climate change, where both nations have shared interests.

The seminars also addressed the economic interdependence between the US and China. Despite rising tensions, both countries remain crucial trading partners. Daly underscored the complexities of decoupling these deeply intertwined economies, pointing out that complete separation is neither feasible nor desirable for either side. Instead, he suggests that managing this relationship carefully is imperative to avoid escalating conflicts and ensure mutual economic stability.

Moreover, Daly stressed the importance of building alliances and partnerships. He argued that the US should strengthen ties with its allies in the Indo-Pacific region, including Japan, South Korea, and Australia, to counterbalance China's influence. Similarly, reinforcing connections with European partners can help present a united front on critical issues such as cybersecurity and trade norms.

Robert Daly’s analysis at the Steamboat seminars offers a comprehensive understanding of the nuanced and multifaceted nature of US-China relations. As China continues to assert its power on the global stage, the United States faces the challenge of addressing these aggressions strategically while finding avenues for cooperation where necessary. This delicate balancing act will define the future of international relations in the coming years.