WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) released an updated China White Paper outlining a comprehensive China strategy to boost U.S. competitiveness and enhance American global leadership.

“Congress and Biden administration must continue to think more broadly about its China agenda,” said Larsen, a co-founder and co-chair of the bipartisan U.S. China Working Group. “Instead of thinking defensively, the United States needs to get its own house in order, invest in competitiveness and engage with the world.

“The advantage of this strategy, with a larger focus on skills, education, innovation and multilateral relationships, is it enhances American competitiveness, not just vis-à-vis China, but worldwide.”

The updated white paper builds on Larsen’s December 2021 edition, including new priorities and recommendations while retaining the framework of the original White Paper. Larsen previously released China White Papers in 2019 and 2021.

Larsen’s Four Principles for U.S. Policy in Competing with China

In his China White Paper, Larsen outlines out a four-pillar strategy oriented around:

• Recognizing existing areas of conflict and competition;
• Expanding the playbook to include both offensive and defensive measures to compete with China;
• Identifying areas where bilateral cooperation is in both nations’ interest; and
• Getting our own house in order.

Larsen a Champion of Pragmatic Engagement with China

Larsen has long been a pragmatic voice on engagement with China and other nations in the Indo-Pacific region. In 2005, Larsen co-founded the U.S.-China Working Group with then-Rep. Mark Kirk (R-IL) to create a forum for Members of Congress to hear from diverse experts and discuss the bilateral relationship. Today, Larsen co-chairs the Working Group with Rep. Darin LaHood (R-IL).

The White Paper represents Larsen’s views only – not those of the USCWG or its members. It is the product of Larsen’s review of a variety of scholarship on China and extensive conversations with leaders in academia, think tanks, labor, government, international relations and industry.

Additional Information

To read Larsen’s updated China White Paper, click here.

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