2024 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on the Digital Economy 

October 6-8, 2024
Washington, D.C.

The National Committee on U.S.-China Relations and the China-U.S. Green Fund convened the seventh round of the U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on the Digital Economy from October 6 to 8, 2024, in Washington, D.C. Twenty-two American and Chinese academics, think tank experts, and industry leaders gathered for two days of off-the-record discussion of digital economy issues. Topics included the digital economy and foreign policy, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, electric vehicles, and autonomous vehicles. Throughout the dialogue, participants addressed possible avenues for collaboration, and are currently writing a consensus agreement reflecting policy recommendations for both governments. The consensus agreement developed by the two teams sets forth recommendations that both sides can propose to their respective governments.

2023 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on the Digital Economy 
 
December 9-10, 2023 
Suzhou, China 

The National Committee on U.S.-China Relations and the China-U.S. Green Fund convened the sixth Track II Dialogue on the Digital Economy from December 9 to 10, 2023 in Suzhou, China. The Dialogue brought together U.S. and Chinese experts from academia, think tanks, and industry for non-governmental off-the-record in-depth discussions on digital economy issues of concern to both countries. 
 
This session of the Dialogue focused on the areas of artificial intelligence, data and enterprise software, and semiconductors. The two sides sought ways that the two countries can cooperate in the digital economy, despite the difficult bilateral relationship. Both sides agreed that, although China and the United States are in fierce competition, there is still room for cooperation in the digital economy. The two sides wrote a consensus agreement that includes policy recommendations for both governments.

2022 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on the Digital Economy 
 
December 19, 2022 and February 13, 2023 
Zoom meeting 
 
The National Committee on U.S.-China Relations and the China-U.S. Green Fund convened the fifth Track II Dialogue on the Digital Economy virtually through Zoom on December 19, 2022 and February 13, 2023 (December 20, 2022 and February 14, 2023 in China).  The Dialogue brought together U.S. and Chinese experts from academia, think tanks, and industry for non-governmental off-the-record in-depth discussions on digital economy issues of concern to both countries. 
 
This session of the Dialogue focused on the areas of data and enterprise software and semiconductors. Both sides agreed that, although China and the United States are in fierce competition, there is still room for cooperation in the digital economy.  The consensus agreement developed by the two teams sets forth recommendations that both sides can propose to their respective governments.

2021 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on the Digital Economy

November 17 – 18, 2021
Zoom meeting

The National Committee on U.S.-China Relations and the China Institute for Innovation & Development Strategy convened their fourth Track II Dialogue on the Digital Economy virtually through Zoom on November 17 and 18, 2021 (November 18 and 19, 2021 in China). The Dialogue brought together U.S. and Chinese experts from academia, think tanks, and industry for non-governmental, off-the-record, in-depth discussions on digital economy issues of concern to both countries.

The two days of discussion advanced the results of the previous session of the Dialogue held in December 2020, as set out in the Consensus Agreement from that meeting. The November 2021 session focused on two key areas of concern and opportunity in the digital economy for both nations, namely, semiconductors and enterprise software. The participants agreed that China-U.S. relations are at an unprecedented inflection point and both countries need to take concerted action if the digital economy is to develop for the benefit of both nations, their peoples, and, by extension, the world. The consensus agreement sets forth recommendations that both sides can propose to their respective governments.

2020 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on the Digital Economy

December 2 – 4, 2020
Zoom meeting

The National Committee on U.S.-China Relations, together with the China Institute for Innovation & Development Strategy, the Fuxi Institution and the Guanchao Cyber Forum, convened their third Track II Dialogue on the Digital Economy virtually through Zoom on December 2 and 3, 2020 (December 3 and 4, 2020 in China). The dialogue brought together U.S. and Chinese experts from academia, think tanks, and industry for non-governmental, off-the-record, in-depth discussions on digital economy issues of concern to both countries. The two sides developed a consensus agreement, which has been shared with both governments.

2019 U.S.-China Track II Dialogues on the Digital Economy

December 9 – 10, 2019
Sanya, Hainan, China

The National Committee on U.S.-China Relations and the Guanchao Cyber Forum convened their second Track II Dialogue on the Digital Economy on December 9 and 10, 2019 in Sanya, Hainan, China. The dialogue brought together U.S. and Chinese experts from academia, think tanks, and industry for off-the-record discussions on digital economy issues of concern to both countries.

During the two-day meeting, representatives from both sides discussed a series of topics including data governance, optimizing and appropriately securing digital economy supply chain, artificial intelligence technology, and new trends in digital economic cooperation. They reached the following consensus agreement to provide a set of recommendations for their respective government departments based on the principles of openness and mutual benefit.

March 10 – 12, 2019
Washington, DC

The inaugural dialogue on the Digital Economy was held in March 2019 at the Cosmos Club in Washington, D.C. This initial gathering brought together ten American participants and ten Chinese participants, consisting of experts in the field and representatives of major technology companies. During the two-day meeting, participants focused their discussions on data governance, supply chain risk management and the Internet of Things. The two sides developed a consensus agreement, which has been shared with both governments.

2024 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on the Digital Economy
October 2024 Consensus Agreement (PDF | 中文)

2023 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on the Digital Economy
December 2023 Consensus Agreement (PDF | 中文)

2022 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on the Digital Economy
December 2022 Consensus Agreement (PDF | 中文)

2021 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on the Digital Economy
November 2021 Consensus Agreement (PDF | 中文)

2020 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on the Digital Economy
December 2020 Consensus Agreement (PDF | 中文)

2019 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on the Digital Economy
December 2019 Consensus Agreement (PDF | 中文)
March 2019 Consensus Agreement (PDF | 中文)

2024 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on Climate Finance and Trade
September 3-6, 2024
New York City and Washington, D.C.

The National Committee on U.S.-China Relations, the Center on Global Energy Policy at Columbia University, and the Beijing Green Finance Association, under the guidance of the Institute of Energy, Environment, and Economy at Tsinghua University, convened the fourth Track II Dialogue on Climate Finance and Trade in New York City on September 3-6, 2024. This session of the dialogue was the first to meet in person, and participants from both countries enjoyed speaking with each other face to face during formal sessions and informally over meals. The teams discussed foreign direct investments in climate-related projects, carbon markets, COP29 climate finance issues, and climate-related financial disclosures. After the dialogue concluded, the Chinese team traveled to Washington, D.C., for meetings with NGOs, think tanks, and business climate experts. The Chairs of both teams developed a Chairs’ Report, which is posted below.

2023 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on Climate Finance
July 19 & 20, 2023
Virtual

The National Committee on U.S.-China Relations, the Center on Global Energy Policy at Columbia University, and the Beijing Green Finance Association, under the guidance of the Institute of Energy, Environment and Economy at Tsinghua University, convened the third Track II Dialogue on Climate Finance virtually on July 19 and 20, 2023. The dialogue examined various topics related to climate finance, such as climate-related financial disclosures, trade and carbon markets, green development in third countries, and climate finance issues likely to come up at COP28 in Dubai later in 2023. The dialogue participants wrote a white list of policy suggestions, the contents of which were communicated to high-level leaders in both countries.

2022 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on Climate Finance
September 27 & 29, 2022
Virtual

The National Committee on U.S.-China Relations, the Center on Global Energy Policy at Columbia University, and the Beijing Green Finance Association, under the guidance of the Institute of Energy, Environment and Economy at Tsinghua University, convened the second Track II Dialogue on Climate Finance virtually on September 27 and 29, 2022, a time when official bilateral talks had been suspended by the Chinese government in response to U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan in early August. The dialogue provided a platform for experts from both countries to exchange ideas. At a time of fraught relations, dialogue participants examined domestic climate initiatives within each country, U.S.-China cooperation in support of green development in third countries, climate-related financial disclosures, carbon markets, and carbon pricing. The two sides developed a joint report, which was distributed to both governments and is posted below.

January 24 & 25, 2022
Virtual

The National Committee on U.S.-China Relations, the Center on Global Energy Policy at Columbia University, and the Beijing Green Finance Association, under the guidance of the Institute of Energy, Environment and Economy at Tsinghua University, convened the first Track II Dialogue on Climate Finance virtually on January 24 and 25, 2022 EDT. The dialogue brought together experts from academia, think tanks, business, and industry in both countries for off-the-record discussions on opportunities for bilateral collaboration on financing projects to mitigate and adapt to global climate change.  
 
Topics of discussion included prospects for harmonizing standards and U.S.-China enterprise cooperation in supporting green development in third countries, green finance and carbon market cooperation and development, environmental information disclosure, and low carbon financing standards.

2024 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on Climate Finance
September 2024 Chairs’ Report (PDF)

2022 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on Climate Finance
September 2022 Joint Report (PDF)

2024 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on Healthcare 

June 16 to June 17, 2024
Tianjin, China

The National Committee on U.S.-China Relations and the National School of Development at Peking University convened the ninth Track II Dialogue on Healthcare in person at the Conrad Hotel in Tianjin, China on June 16 and 17, 2024. The dialogue brought together American and Chinese experts from academia, think tanks, and industry for off-the-record discussions on healthcare issues pertaining to both countries. This was the first time in four years that the two teams had met in China due to the pandemic. The day following the dialogue, the National Committee and the National School of Development co-hosted a U.S.-China Forum on Cancer Prevention and Treatment. Over 200 medical experts attended this public event.

During the dialogue, the group discussed various issues, including artificial intelligence in healthcare systems; regulatory harmonization on biomedical innovation; global health collaboration; and accelerating progress in cancer prevention and treatment. The participants agreed that collaboration between China and the United States is critical to improving global healthcare and expressed the hope that both governments would start to work with each other at a high level. The two sides developed a consensus agreement that sets out key points of discussion and recommendations for both countries.

2023 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on Healthcare  
  
July 10 to July 11, 2023  
Durham, NC  
  
The National Committee on U.S.-China Relations and the National School of Development at Peking University convened the eighth Track II Dialogue on Healthcare in person at the JB Duke Hotel in Durham, North Carolina on July 10 and 11, 2023. The dialogue brought together American and Chinese experts from academia, think tanks, and industry for off-the-record discussions on healthcare issues pertaining to both countries.  
  
This was the first time in four years that the two teams had seen each other in person; the prior three sessions of the Dialogue took place virtually over Zoom, due to the pandemic. All members greatly appreciated the opportunity to talk freely with their American and Chinese colleagues, especially at a time of continuing tension between the two nations. The group discussed various issues, including healthcare innovation and regulatory harmonization; how to develop more resilient and sustainable healthcare systems; and improving preparedness and response to future pandemics and global health emergencies. The participants agreed that collaboration between China and the United States is critical to improving global healthcare and expressed the hope that both governments would start to work with each other at a high level. The two sides developed a consensus agreement, which was distributed to both governments. 

2022 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on Healthcare 

July 20 and July 22, 2022
Zoom meeting

The National Committee on U.S.-China Relations and the National School of Development at Peking University convened the seventh Track II Dialogue on Healthcare virtually through Zoom on July 20 and 22, 2022. The dialogue brought together American and Chinese experts from academia, think tanks, and industry for off-the-record discussions on healthcare issues pertaining to both countries. 
 
Held in the third year of the global COVID-19 pandemic, the meeting occurred at a time when fraught relations between the two countries have made cooperation on the pandemic and other health issues challenging. Despite the difficult geopolitical climate, participants were encouraged by the virtual meeting, identifying several areas for potential collaboration, such as on new COVID treatments, increasing ties between healthcare agencies, and promoting data sharing in nonsensitive areas. They expressed hope that they could meet in person next year and repeatedly emphasized that healthcare cooperation should set an example for Sino-American collaboration in other areas, as it historically has not been as controversial as some other fields. The two sides developed a consensus agreement, which was distributed to both governments. 

2021 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on Healthcare

July 20, 2021 to July 21, 2021
Zoom meeting

The National Committee on U.S.-China Relations and the National School of Development at Peking University convened the sixth Track II Dialogue on Healthcare virtually through Zoom on July 20 and 21, 2021 (July 20 and 22, 2021 in China). The dialogue brought together American and Chinese experts from academia, think tanks, and industry for off-the-record discussions on healthcare issues pertaining to both countries.

The meeting took place at a time when both countries, and the world, are still struggling with the COVID-19 pandemic. The fraught relations between the United States and China have made cooperation on the pandemic and other health issues challenging. Recognizing this situation, the dialogue participants focused on ways Americans and Chinese can collaborate on the pandemic, as well as other health issues, and on scientific, technological, and implementation developments that may improve public health and the delivery of healthcare to their respective societies and around the world. The two sides developed a consensus agreement, which has been shared with both governments.

2020 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on Healthcare

July 13, 2020 to July 14, 2020
Zoom meeting

The National Committee on U.S.-China Relations and the National School of Development at Peking University convened the fifth Track II Dialogue on Healthcare virtually through Zoom on July 13 and 14, 2020 (July 13 and 15, 2020 in China). The dialogue brought together American and Chinese experts from academia, think tanks, and industry for off-the-record discussions on healthcare issues pertaining to both countries. The meeting took place at a time when both countries, and the world, were dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic. This situation led the dialogue participants to focus on public health concerns and how China and the United States can work together to envision, prepare for, and deal with crises similar to the current pandemic. The two sides developed a consensus agreement, which has been shared with both governments.

2019 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on Healthcare

June 18, 2019 to June 20, 2019
Jiangyin, Jiangsu, China

The fourth iteration of the National Committee’s healthcare dialogue was held in Jiangyin, a city in Jiangsu Province. The dialogue brought together seven American and 12 Chinese experts in the field and representatives of major healthcare companies, along with four observers from both countries. A wide range of topics, including regulatory science and capacity building, health technology assessments, technology payment, and value-based care, was discussed, as were possible projects to address care reform opportunities in both countries. The mayor of Jiangyin and other city officials provided an introduction to the local healthcare system and a tour of medical facilities in the city. As with previous dialogues, this one concluded with a consensus agreement that sets out key points of discussion and suggestions for policy changes in both countries. This document is circulated to relevant departments in both governments for their consideration.

2018 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on Healthcare

November 5, 2018 to November 7, 2018
Warrenton, VA

The third healthcare dialogue was held at Airlie, a conference center in Warrenton, Virginia, outside Washington, D.C. The dialogue brought together eight American participants and eight Chinese participants, consisting of experts in the field and representatives of major healthcare companies, as well as three observers from both countries. Past dialogues have developed a common understanding and foundation for addressing key shared challenges between both countries. The third dialogue built on these themes, recognizing that achieving progress will require more ongoing collaboration between the United States and China, and that such healthcare collaborations can help address the growing tensions related to trade between the two nations. The two sides discussed a wide range of topics, including medical technology development; health insurance reform and the role of the private sector; advancing value-based care models; public health; and areas of possible cooperation in healthcare between the United States and China. On the third day, Chinese participants attended the Chinese Hospital Association’s forum in downtown Washington, D.C., and met with the Kaiser J. Family Foundation. Each dialogue session concludes with a consensus agreement, setting out key points of discussion among the participants, and suggestions for policy changes. This document is circulated to relevant departments in both governments for their consideration.

January 19, 2018 to January 21, 2018
Beijing, China

The second healthcare dialogue was held in Beijing from January 19 to 21, 2018. Our co-organizer, the National School of Development at Peking University, hosted the group at the Yanqi Lake International Convention Center, located in the northern suburbs of the city. This gathering brought together participants from both China and the United States, consisting of experts in the field and representatives of major healthcare companies, as well as seven observers from both countries. Following up on the broad discussions in the previous dialogue, the two sides focused on reforming healthcare to improve population health; the opportunities of big data and information technology; how to reform payment and delivery systems; and how to encourage innovation in each country. Following the dialogue, the two sides developed a consensus agreement, documenting areas of discussion and recommendations to both countries.

2017 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on Healthcare

July 11, 2017 to July 14, 2017
Warrenton, VA

The first healthcare dialogue was held at Airlie, a conference center in Warrenton, Virginia, outside Washington, D.C. This initial gathering brought together 11 participants from each of China and the United States, consisting of experts in the field and representatives of major healthcare companies, as well as 10 observers from both countries. During the two-day meeting, the two sides learned about the structure of and issues confronting the healthcare system in the other country, and discussed a wide range of topics, including biomedical innovation; health system innovation and technology assessment; population health; and areas of possible cooperation in healthcare between the United States and China. Following the dialogue, the two sides developed a consensus agreement, documenting areas of discussion and recommendations to both countries.

2024 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on Healthcare
June 2024 Consensus Agreement (PDF)

2023 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on Healthcare
July 2023 Consensus Agreement (PDF)

2022 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on Healthcare
July 2022 Consensus Agreement (PDF)

2021 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on Healthcare
July 2021 Consensus Agreement (PDF)

2020 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on Healthcare
July 2020 Consensus Agreement (PDF)

2019 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on Healthcare
June 2019 Consensus Agreement (PDF)

2018 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on Healthcare
November 2018 Consensus Agreement (PDF)
January 2018 Consensus Agreement (PDF)

2017 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on Healthcare
July 2017 Consensus Agreement (PDF)

2024 U.S.-China Track II Economic Dialogue

November 17 – 21, 2024
Beijing, China

The National Committee on U.S.-China Relations and the China Center for Economic Research of Peking University convened the 29th session of the U.S.-China Track II Economic Dialogue in Beijing on November 17-21, 2024. American and Chinese economists, professors, and industry experts discussed the economic outlook in both countries, prospects for U.S.-China trade and economic relations in 2025, and the future of U.S.-China cleantech investment. This year, Ambassador and NCUSCR Chair Charlene Barshefsky led the U.S. team, while Executive Director of the Shanghai Finance Institute Tu Guangshao led the Chinese team. Following the two days of dialogue, the U.S. team visited relevant Chinese government offices, including the People’s Bank of China and the Ministry of Finance, as well as China International Capital Corporation and the China Institute of Financial and Capital Markets, to exchange views on China’s economic situation, fiscal policies, and U.S.-China economic relations.

April 15 & 16, 2024
New York City and Washington, D.C.
 
The National Committee on U.S.-China Relations and the China Center for Economic Research convened the 28th session of the U.S.-China Track II Economic Dialogue in New York and Washington, D.C., in April. The Dialogue brought together American and Chinese economic experts, academics, industry leaders, and others for two days of off-the-record discussions. Participants discussed the current state of the economy in the United States and China, prospects for U.S.-China trade and economic relations, the future of bilateral economic coexistence, and possible areas of cooperation. They shared thoughtful, candid, and substantive insights and comments. Following the Dialogue, the Chinese team travelled to Washington, D.C. and met with officials from the Departments of Commerce, Treasury, and State, as well as the National Economic Council and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative. They also met with scholars at the Brookings Institution and the Peterson Institute for International Economics. The two sides are drafting meeting notes to reflect the major points of discussion and suggestions that emerged from the Dialogue.

2023 U.S.-China Track II Economic Dialogue
October 9 & 10, 2023
Beijing, China

The U.S.-China Track II Economic Dialogue convened in person in Beijing in October 2023.  The American delegation traveled to China for the first time since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020. Leading American and Chinese economists, business leaders, and experts held off-the-record discussions on critical issues in the bilateral economic and trade relationship in the context of global economic developments. The Americans also met with senior Chinese government officials at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Commerce, the Development Research Center of the State Council, as well as with former officials from People’s Bank of China and the National Development and Reform Commission. The team also visited the International Monetary Fund office in Beijing and China International Capital Corporation for informative and constructive meetings.
 
January 9 & 10, 2023
New York and Washington, D.C.

Participants in the U.S.-China Track II Economic Dialogue, co-hosted by the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations and the National School of Development at Peking University, gathered in New York on January 9th and 10th, 2023 for the 26th round of the Dialogue. This was the first in-person meeting of the group since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic three years ago. Participants discussed the 2023 economic outlook given China’s recent repeal of the zero-COVID policy, heightened distrust in trade relations, and the impact of rising inflation.
 
Participants from both countries wrote meeting notes which were circulated to both governments with policy suggestions.

2022 U.S.-China Track II Economic Dialogue
July 25 & 28, 2022
Virtual

The National Committee on U.S.-China Relations and the China Center for Economic Research, Peking University, hosted the 25^th iteration of the Economic Dialogue in July 2022. The Dialogue brought together U.S. and Chinese experts for off-the-record conversations about economic relations, trade conflicts, macroeconomic challenges, and other economic issues. NCUSCR Board Director and Ambassador Carla Hills led the American delegation; Qin Xiao, former chairman of the China Merchants Group, led the Chinese delegation. After the meetings, the two sides published notes which were circulated to both governments with constructive and practical policy suggestions.
 
January 18 & 19, 2022
Virtual

The National Committee on U.S.-China Relations and the China Center for Economic Research, Peking University, hosted the 24^th iteration of this economic dialogue in January of 2022. As in the past, NCUSCR Board Director and Ambassador Carla Hills led the American Delegation while Qin Xiao, former chairman of the China Merchants Group, led the Chinese Delegation. The Dialogue brought together U.S. and Chinese experts for off-the-record conversations about prospects for 2022 economic relations, the threat of more trade conflicts, and risks associated with more decoupling. Following the meeting, participants wrote up meeting notes which were circulated to both governments with constructive and practical policy suggestions.

2021 U.S.-China Track II Economic Dialogue
August 11 & 13, 2021
Virtual

The National Committee on U.S.-China Relations and the China Center for Economic Research, Peking University, hosted the 23^rd iteration of this Economic Dialogue in August of 2021 virtually. The Dialogue brought together U.S. and Chinese experts who engaged in in-depth conversations about 2021 economic relations, trade conflicts, the risk of more decoupling, and other economic issues. NCUSCR Board Director and Ambassador Carla Hills led the American Delegation while Qin Xiao, former chairman of the China Merchants Group, led the Chinese Delegation. The two sides published meeting notes which were circulated to both governments with constructive and practical policy suggestions.

2020 U.S.-China Track II Economic Dialogue
December 9 & 10, 2020
Virtual

The National Committee on U.S.-China Relations and the China Center for Economic Research, Peking University, hosted the 22^nd iteration of this Economic Dialogue in December of 2020. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the participants met virtually again. The Dialogue brought together American and Chinese experts, led by NCUSCR Board Director and Ambassador Carla Hills and Qin Xiao, former chairman of the China Merchants Group, respectively. The two sides met for off-the-record conversations about economic outlook and policy prospects in COVID-19 and post COVID-19 environments, U.S.-China trade relations under incoming U.S. President Biden, and other bilateral economic issues.
As in earlier years, the two sides published meeting notes with policy suggestions which were circulated to both governments.

July 20 & 21, 2020
Virtual

The National Committee on U.S.-China Relations and the China Center for Economic Research, Peking University, hosted the 21^st iteration of this Economic Dialogue in July of 2020. For the first time, the participants met virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Dialogue brought together U.S. and Chinese experts for off-the-record conversations. The two sides discussed economic recovery in China and the United States amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the possibility of future decoupling, and how the upcoming U.S. presidential elections might affect U.S.-China economic relations. NCUSCR Board Director and Ambassador Carla Hills led the American Delegation while Qin Xiao, former chairman of the China Merchants Group, led the Chinese Delegation.
 
The participants wrote up meeting notes which were circulated to both governments.
 
January 10, 2020
New York and Washington, D.C.

The National Committee on U.S.-China Relations and the China Center for Economic Research, Peking University, hosted the 20^th iteration of the dialogue in January 2020. American and Chinese experts held off-the-record conversations about the economic outlook for 2020, the ongoing U.S.-China trade war and relevant agreements, and other macroeconomic challenges. NCUSCR Board Director and Ambassador Carla Hills led the American delegation while Qin Xiao, former chairman of the China Merchants Group, led the Chinese delegation.
 
Participants from both sides drafted internal meeting notes which were circulated to both governments.

2019 U.S.-China Track II Economic Dialogue
July 10 & 11, 2019
Beijing, China

The National Committee on U.S.-China Relations and the China Center for Economic Research, Peking University, hosted the 19^th iteration of this economic dialogue in July 2019. Experts from the United States and China discussed U.S.-China trade relations, economic challenges, and the future of U.S.-China economic coexistence. Carla Hills, NCUSCR board director and former ambassador, led the American delegation. Qin Xiao, former chairman of the China Merchants Group, led the Chinese delegation.

The two sides wrote internal meeting notes which were circulated to both governments.

2019 U.S.-China Track II Economic Dialogue
January 2019 Consensus Agreement (PDF)

2018 U.S.-China Track II Economic Dialogue
January 2018 Consensus Agreement (PDF)

2017 U.S.-China Track II Economic Dialogue
January 2017 Consensus Agreement (PDF)
June 2017 Consensus Agreement (PDF)

2016 U.S.-China Track II Economic Dialogue
January 2016 Consensus Agreement (PDF)

2015 U.S.-China Track II Economic Dialogue
January 2015 Consensus Agreement (PDF)
June 2015 Consensus Agreement (PDF)

2014 U.S.-China Track II Economic Dialogue
January 2014 Consensus Agreement (PDF)
July 2014 Consensus Agreement (PDF)

2013 U.S.-China Track II Economic Dialogue
January 2013 Consensus Agreement (PDF)
June 2013 Consensus Agreement (PDF)

2012 U.S.-China Track II Economic Dialogue
March 2012 Consensus Agreement (PDF)

2023 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on the Rule of Law & Human Rights
November 8 & 9, 2023
Virtual

On November 8 and 9, 2023, American and Chinese experts in law, government, and academia convened virtually for the twelfth iteration of the National Committee’s U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on the Rule of Law & Human Rights. The sessions covered many different topics, including corporate responsibility in overseas markets, privacy, transparency, forced labor, sanctions, state control, exit/entry bans, Xinjiang, and the protection of individual rights in international transactions, with a focus on business and human rights in the global economy as well as U.S.-China relations. The discussions may lead to the creation of a working group to follow up on potential areas of agreement and cooperation in the contentious area of human rights and rule of law.

2022 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on the Rule of Law & Human Rights
August 29 & 30, 2022
Virtual

On August 29 and 30, 2022, experts from American and Chinese legal fields, government, and academia convened virtually for the National Committee’s U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on the Rule of Law & Human Rights. The sessions covered various human rights issues, such as privacy, transparency, forced labor in Xinjiang, and state control during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as rule of law issues in the context of national security interests. The dialogue provides a unique platform for participants from both countries to discuss various human rights and rule of law issues.

2021 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on the Rule of Law & Human Rights
April 26 & 28, 2021
Virtual

On April 26 and 28, 2021, American and Chinese governmental, legal, and academic experts met virtually for this Dialogue. The sessions covered important and timely issues, with a particular focus on Xinjiang, the COVID-19 pandemic, and national security interests.

2019 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on the Rule of Law & Human Rights
October 27-29, 2019
New York, NY

From October 27 to 29, 2019, experts from the American and Chinese governments, the legal field, and academia convened in New York for the National Committee’s U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on the Rule of Law & Human Rights. The sessions covered important and timely issues, including trial-centered reforms in China and experiences from the U.S. criminal system reforms, as well as government accountability and supervision, with a specific focus on China’s governance in Xinjiang. In addition to the dialogue sessions, the Chinese delegation visited the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, where they met with Judge Sidney Stein and observed a hearing in the courtroom of Judge Paul Engelmayer.

Earlier Sessions
December 3-6, 2018, Beijing
November 13-16, 2017, New York City
December 6-10, 2015, Beijing 
September 10-12, 2013, Glen Cove, NY
December 3-5, 2012, Haikou, Hainan Province
September 14-15, 2011, New York City
December 7-8, 2010, Xiamen, Fujian Province
December 12-13, 2009, Nantong, Jiangsu Province.

2024 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on Maritime Issues & International Law

July 31, 2024
Virtual

On July 31, 2024, the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations and the National Institute for South China Sea Studies (NISCSS) held the 13th round of the U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on Maritime Issues and International Law virtually. National Committee President Stephen Orlins led the U.S. team and NISCSS President Wu Shicun led the Chinese team; both were joined by lawyers, academics, and military, including naval, experts. Participants discussed the recent crisis over the Second Thomas Shoal, China’s relationship with the claimant states in the South China Sea, the role of the United States in the region, and possible mechanisms for dispute resolution and confidence building in maritime affairs. The delegate members expressed concern about the heightened tensions in the South China Sea and shared widely divergent perspectives about recent Chinese and U.S. actions in the region, furthering the longstanding goal of the dialogue to advance mutual understanding and communication.

2023 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on Maritime Issues & International Law

September 19, 2023 and September 21, 2023
Virtual

This iteration of the National Committee’s Track II dialogue was again held virtually. The American and Chinese delegations, composed of naval, legal, and geopolitical experts, were again led by Stephen Orlins, the National Committee’s president, and by Wu Shicun, president of the National Institute for South China Sea Studies (NISCSS), respectively. The delegations met over two days, discussing legal, political, and military aspects of the maritime disputes and activity in the South and East China Seas. Specific topics included the geopolitics of the South China Sea; territorial sovereignty and possibilities for joint resource development; opportunities for cooperation in area-based management and marine protection; freedom of navigation; the development and legal status of new maritime technology; as well as security issues in both the East and South China Seas. The group continued longstanding discussion of what processes might be implemented to improve the situation in the South China Sea, to avoid crises, and to encourage third party claimant states to engage in conversations with one another and with China.

Both sides felt the dialogue was productive in advancing genuine understanding of the issues regarding maritime disputes, the U.S.-China relationship, and regional relations of importance to both countries. The participants are drafting a list of ideas for managing tensions in this complex relationship that will be recommended to decision-makers on both sides. Participants hope to meet in-person for the next round of dialogues.

2019-2022 U.S. China Track II Dialogue on Maritime Issues & International Law

September 6 and 7, 2022
December 6 and 7, 2021
December 15 and 16, 2020
June 29 and 30, 2020
Virtual

Due to the global pandemic, this dialogue met virtually beginning in 2020. The American and Chinese delegations, composed of naval, legal, and geopolitical experts, were led by Stephen Orlins, president of the National Committee, and by Dr. Wu Shicun, president of the National Institute for South China Sea Studies (NISCSS), respectively. Over two days the participants reviewed the legal, political, and military aspects of the maritime disputes and activity in the South and East China Seas. Topics included the status and role of international law in dispute resolution; the geopolitics of the South China Sea; territorial sovereignty and possibilities for joint resource development; opportunities for cooperation in area-based management and marine protection; freedom of navigation; the development and legal status of new maritime technology; and security issues in both the East and South China Seas. The group considered what might be done to improve the situation in the area, avoid crises, and lead to resolution of disputes.

The dialogue sessions advanced mutual understanding of the issues regarding maritime disputes, the U.S.-China relationship, and regional relations of current importance to both China and the United States. A list of ideas for managing tensions was recommended to decision-makers in both countries


2018 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on Maritime Issues & International Law

July 25, 2018 to July 27, 2018
Provincetown, MA

The second iteration of our maritime Track II dialogue in 2018 was held in Provincetown, Massachusetts. The American and Chinese delegations, composed of naval, legal, and geopolitical experts, were again led by Stephen Orlins, the National Committee’s president, and by Dr. Wu Shicun, president of the National Institute for South China Sea Studies (NISCSS), respectively. The delegations met for two days and actively participated in candid and constructive discussions on legal, political, and military aspects of the maritime disputes and activity in the South and East China Seas. The discussion’s focal points included: the present status and role of international law in dispute resolution; the geopolitics of the South China Sea; territorial sovereignty and possibilities for joint development; opportunities for cooperation in area-based management and marine protection; freedom of navigation; the development and legal status of new maritime technology; as well as, security issues in both the East and South China Seas. The group continued its discussion of what processes might be undertaken to improve the situation in the South China Sea, to avoid crises, and to lead toward resolution of disputes and a mutually acceptable outcome.

Both sides felt the dialogue was productive in advancing mutual understandings of the issues regarding maritime disputes, the U.S.-China relationship, and regional relations of current importance to both China and the United States. More importantly, our participants again are in the process of drafting a list of ideas for managing tensions in this complex relationship that will be recommended to decision-makers on both sides.

January 15, 2018 to January 17, 2018
Sanya, Hainan, China

This round of our maritime Track II dialogue was held in Sanya, Hainan Province, China. The American delegation of legal experts was again led by Stephen Orlins, the National Committee’s president, and the Chinese side was chaired by Dr. Wu Shicun, the president of National Institute for South China Sea Studies (NISCSS). Accomplished experts on international law and maritime disputes composed both delegations. The two sides met for a day and a half and all participants actively participated in candid and constructive discussions on legal, political and military aspects of China’s maritime disputes in the South and East China Seas. The issues these legal experts focused on included the present status and role of international law in dispute resolution, territorial sovereignty and joint development, the legal and strategic meaning of China’s land reclamation efforts in the South China Sea, maritime jurisdiction and institutionalized dispute resolution approaches, as well as security issues in the East and South China Seas. The group continued its discussion of what process or processes might be undertaken to improve the situation in the South China Sea, to avoid crises, and to lead toward resolution of disputes and a mutually acceptable outcome.

Both sides felt the dialogue was significantly productive in advancing mutual understandings of the issues regarding maritime disputes, the U.S.-China relationship, and regional relations of current importance to both China and the United States. More importantly, our participants came up with a list of ideas for managing tensions in this complex relationship that will be recommended to decision-makers on both sides.

2017 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on Maritime Issues & International Law

July 26, 2017 to July 28, 2017
Provincetown, MA

At this round of our maritime Track II dialogue, held in Provincetown, Massachusetts, the American delegation of legal experts was again led by Stephen Orlins, the National Committee’s president, and Jerome Cohen, professor of law and founder and co-director of U.S.-Asia Law Institute at New York University. The Chinese side was chaired by Dr. Wu Shicun, the president of National Institute for South China Sea Studies (NISCSS). Accomplished experts on international law and maritime disputes composed both delegations.

The two sides met for a day and a half and all participants actively participated in candid and constructive discussions on legal, political and military aspects of China’s maritime disputes in the South and East China Seas. The issues these legal experts focused on included the present status and role of international law in dispute resolution, territorial sovereignty and joint development, the legal and strategic meaning of China’s land reclamation efforts in the South China Sea, maritime jurisdiction and institutionalized dispute resolution approaches as well as security issues in the East and South China Seas.

This dialogue allowed the participants to come to greater understanding of the motivations of the many players in this issue, providing insight that could inform Chinese and American official decision-making during this crucial period of uncertainty. Our participants agreed that the overall relationship between the United States and China has many areas of cooperation and even co-dependence. These should help serve as stabilizing forces if tensions in the maritime domain become too severe. Therefore, it is important for the United States and China to accept that the South China Sea will be a zone of overlapping strategic interests and to devise effective mechanisms to maintain stability between us despite this new aspect of competition in our relationship. Both sides felt the dialogue was significantly productive in advancing mutual understandings of the issues regarding maritime disputes, the U.S.-China relationship, and regional relations of current importance to both China and the United States.


January 8, 2017 to January 10, 2017
Haikou, Hainan, China

At this round of our Track II dialogue, held in Haikou, China, the American delegation of legal experts was again led by Stephen Orlins, the National Committee’s president, and Jerome Cohen, professor of law and founder and co-director of U.S.-Asia Law Institute at New York University. The Chinese side was chaired by Dr. Wu Shicun, the president of National Institute for South China Sea Studies (NISCSS), and Major Gen. (Rtd) Qian Lihua, former director-general of the Foreign Affairs Office of the Chinese Ministry of National Defense. Accomplished experts on international law and maritime disputes composed both delegations. President Wu hosted the American delegation at their institute.

The two sides met for a day and a half and all participants actively participated in candid and constructive discussions on legal, political and military aspects of China’s maritime disputes in the South and East China Seas. The issues these legal experts focused on included the present status and role of international law in dispute resolution, territorial sovereignty, the legal and strategic meaning of China’s land reclamation efforts in the South China Sea, maritime jurisdiction and institutionalized dispute resolution approaches as well as security issues in the East and South China Sea.

This dialogue allowed the participants to come to greater understanding of the motivations of the many players in this issue, providing insight that could inform Chinese and American official decision-making during this crucial period of uncertainty. Our participants agreed that the overall relationship between the United States and China has many areas of cooperation and even co-dependence. These should help serve as stabilizing forces if tensions in the maritime domain become too severe. Therefore, it is important for the United States and China to accept that the South China Sea will be a zone of overlapping strategic interests and to devise effective mechanisms to maintain stability between us despite this new aspect of competition in our relationship. Both sides felt the dialogue was significantly productive in advancing mutual understandings of the issues regarding maritime disputes, the U.S.-China relationship, and regional relations of current importance to both China and the United States.

2016 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on Maritime Issues & International Law (United States)

June 29, 2016 to June 30, 2016
New York, NY

At this year’s dialogue, held in New York, the American delegation of legal experts was again led by Stephen Orlins, the National Committee’s president, and Jerome Cohen, professor of law and founder and co-director of U.S.-Asia Law Institute at New York University. The Chinese side was chaired by Dr. Wu Shicun, the president of NISCSS, and Major Gen. (Rtd) Qian Lihua, former director-general of the Foreign Affairs Office of the Chinese Ministry of National Defense. Accomplished experts on international law and maritime disputes composed both delegations.

The two sides met for a day and a half and all participants actively participated in candid and constructive discussions on legal and political aspects of China’s maritime disputes in the South and East China Seas. The issues these legal experts focused on included the present status and upcoming ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in Hague on the Philippines’ UNCLOS Annex VII arbitration against China, territorial sovereignty, the legal and strategic meaning of China’s land reclamation efforts in the South China Sea, maritime jurisdiction, international and institutionalized dispute resolution approaches as well as security issues in the East and South China Seas.

This dialogue allowed the participants to come to greater understanding of the motivations of the many players in this issue, providing insight that could inform Chinese and American official decision-making. We had also invited Robert Beckman, director of Centre for International Law and associate professor at National University of Singapore to be our dinner speaker to provide a different perspective. Furthermore, together the expert from both sides explored the function of international law and institutional dispute resolution mechanisms in helping resolve and manage the current disputes and raised important and creative recommendations for possible ways managing these disputes. Both sides felt the dialogue was significantly productive in advancing mutual understandings of the issues regarding maritime disputes, the U.S.-China relationship, and regional relations of current importance to both China and the United States.

2015 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on Maritime Issues & International Law (United States)

April 17, 2015 to April 18, 2015
Washington, DC

At this year’s dialogue, held in Washington, D.C., the American delegation of legal experts was again led by Stephen Orlins, the National Committee’s president, and Jerome Cohen, professor of law and founder and co-director of U.S.-Asia Law Institute at New York University. The Chinese side was chaired by Dr. Wu Shicun, the president of NISCSS, and Major Gen. (Rtd) Qian Lihua, former director-general of the Foreign Affairs Office of the Chinese Ministry of National Defense. Accomplished experts on international law and maritime disputes composed both delegations. 

The two sides met for a day and a half and all participants actively participated in candid and constructive discussions on legal and political aspects of China’s maritime disputes in the East and South China Seas. The issues these legal experts covered included territorial sovereignty, the legal and strategic meaning of China’s land reclamation efforts in the South China Sea, maritime jurisdiction, the present status and future prospects of the Philippines’ UNCLOS Annex VII arbitration against China, international and institutionalized dispute resolution approaches as well as security issues in the East and South China Seas. 

This dialogue allowed the participants to come to greater understanding of the motivations of the many players in this issue, providing insight that could inform Chinese and American official decision-making. Furthermore, together the experts from both sides explored the function of international law and institutional dispute resolution mechanisms in helping resolve and manage the current disputes and raised important and creative recommendations for possible ways managing these disputes. Both sides felt the dialogue was significantly productive in advancing mutual understandings of the issues regarding maritime disputes, the U.S.-China relationship, and regional relations of current importance to both China and the United States.

2014 U.S.-China Track II Dialogue on Maritime Issues & International Law (China)

October 25, 2014 to October 28, 2014
Sanya, Hainan, China

The 2014 dialogue was held October 25-28 in Sanya, Hainan, China. The American delegation of legal experts was led by Stephen Orlins, the National Committee’s president and Peter Dutton, professor and director of China Maritime Studies Institute at U.S. Naval War College. The Chinese side was chaired by Dr. Wu Shicun, the president of NISCSS, and Mr. Gao Zhiguo, judge of International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea. Accomplished experts on international law and maritime disputes composed both delegations.

The two sides met for two days of open and candid discussion on issues relating to territorial sovereignty, maritime jurisdiction, international and institutionalized dispute resolution approaches as well as security issues in the East and South China Seas. These meetings allowed the participants to come to greater understanding of the motivations of the many players in this issue, providing insight that could inform Chinese and American official decision-making. The discussion gave the American side an opportunity to hear a clear articulation of China’s legal claims, which are often insufficiently understood by those outside China.
Both sides felt the dialogue was significantly fruitful in advancing mutual understandings of the issues regarding maritime disputes, the U.S.-China relationship, and regional relations of current importance to both China and the United States. All the participants appreciate a clarification of these complex issues and hope to continue this dialogue annually.

2014 Track II Dialogue on U.S.-China Strategic Security

January 18, 2014 to January 26, 2014
Sunnylands CA
Washington DC

The 2014 meeting in the Strategic Security Dialogue series was held at the Annenberg Retreat at Sunnylands, where Presidents Xi and Obama held their historic summit in June, 2013. This was the first group focused on Sino-American relations to gather there since then and participants felt a special responsibility to build on that meeting, as well as on the solid relationships built during fifteen years of prior NCUSCR-PDP dialogues.

Four major areas were covered: bilateral relations (including mil/mil issues), North Korea and other Northeast Asia security issues, the situation after the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan and the resulting geopolitical strategy in Central Asia, and the challenges and opportunities in building a new major country relationship.