The United States and China have extended an important science and technology collaboration agreement that expired earlier this year after revising the contract during intense power rivalry.
The revised agreement outlines conditions for foundational research collaboration between the two nations while introducing new measures to minimise potential national security threats. According to a statement from the US State Department, it does not include research on critical or emerging technologies.
This agreement holds symbolic importance as the first major bilateral accord signed by Beijing and Washington since they established diplomatic relations in 1979. Proponents attribute its success to advancements in research that have reduced birth defects, improved vaccines, and decreased air pollution.
The Biden administration’s choice to renew the agreement has incited criticism from Republicans, who argue that the decision should have been left to the incoming Trump administration. Rep. John Moolenaar, the Republican chair of the House Select Committee on China, described the announcement as “a clear attempt to tie the hands of the incoming administration.
Researchers in China expressed appreciation for the renewed agreement, with one official saying they felt relieved to see the pact extended for five years.
