Biden announces new Pentagon task force to evaluate China-related strategy, tech and operations
- President describes US-China rivalry as ‘the competition of the future’, expresses concern about ‘growing challenges’ posed by Beijing
- Task force, which will also examine intelligence and alliances, will deliver its recommendations to Austin within four months
The US Defence Department is launching a task force to evaluate its China-related military strategies and operations, President Joe Biden announced on Wednesday, the latest indication that tensions between Washington and Beijing – a feature of Donald Trump’s presidency – will continue under the new administration.
The announcement coincided with a show of support for Taiwan from the Biden administration, as State Department officials met with the self-governed island’s representative in Washington.
Addressing Pentagon staff in the first defence-focused address of his presidency, Biden characterised the rivalry between the US and China as “the competition of the future”, expressing concern about the “growing challenges” posed by Beijing and threats to US interests in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.
“It will require a whole-of-government effort, bipartisan cooperation in Congress and strong alliances and partnerships,” said Biden. “That’s how we’ll meet the China challenge and ensure the American people win the competition of the future.”
The task force’s unveiling came as Biden was said to be planning his first call with Chinese President Xi Jinping.