US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the US is ready to strengthen diplomacy and increase communication with China “across a full range of issues” in a speech on the administration’s policy towards the country on Thursday. “This is a charged moment for the world. And at times like these, diplomacy is vital,” said Blinken who was speaking at George Washington University. “We stand ready to increase our direct communication with Beijing across a full range of issues.” (https://keyt.com/news/2022/05/26/blinken-says-us-is-ready-to-strengthen-diplomacy-with-china-in-charged-moment-for-the-world/) But Blinken also warned, “we can’t rely on Beijing to change its trajectory. So we will shape the strategic environment around Beijing to advance our vision for an open and inclusive international system.” He made clear the Biden administration is not seeking conflict with China. Blinken added that the Biden administration has worked to develop and implement a “comprehensive strategy” to aimed at working on national strengths and working with partners and allies to “realize the future that we seek.” That future does not require blocking China, he explained. “We are not looking for conflict or a new Cold War. To the contrary, we’re determined to avoid both,” Blinken said as he unveiled a much-anticipated speech laying out the Biden administration’s China policy.