Part 4/5:
Amid the criticisms, there is also the acknowledgment that a successful agreement—especially if it pertains to fentanyl—could have far-reaching implications for American communities struggling with the drug crisis. Although some participants express concern over the trade-offs involved, protecting lives through a comprehensive fentanyl agreement is deemed crucial.
Reasserting U.S. Leverage
Another significant point raised is the urgency to reclaim the leverage lost in dealings with China over the past 50 years. This encompasses not just economic means, but broader geopolitical concerns involving military and diplomatic strength in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.