China-US Tensions Undermine Cooperation in Science and Technology

20 Aug, 2024

China-US Tensions Undermine Cooperation in Science and Technology

The growing tensions between the US and China are threatening the renewal of a 45-year-old science and technology pact, crucial for collaboration in areas like energy, agriculture, and disaster management. Originally signed in 1979, the agreement has been a significant pillar of Sino-US relations, enabling valuable research partnerships.

Political challenges, including US restrictions on China’s access to semiconductors and concerns about intellectual property breaches, have made the renewal process difficult. Researchers are now focusing on less controversial fields like climate change and diseases related to ageing as they attempt to work around the strained relationship.

As the agreement nears its expiration, many worry about the long-term effects on joint research projects and academic collaboration. The potential cancellation could send a strong signal discouraging future cooperation, further straining the already tense relationship between the two superpowers.