Third, Baucus has extensive experience in international trade issues. He has traveled to China nine times and led efforts to bring China into the World Trade Organization. He was also instrumental in helping the US and China establish Permanent Normal Trade Relations in 2000. His expertise appears to square nicely with the administration's views on economic ties with China, particularly sensitive questions related to currency values, intellectual property rights, human rights and the environment.

During his confirmation hearings, Baucus shocked some observers by acknowledging that, "I am no real expert on China." However, this self-depreciating statement might best be interpreted as a willingness to learn and to keep an open mind. The seasoned politician proclaimed that when dealing with his Chinese counterparts he plans to "try to understand the other person's assumptions, the other person's premise".

Baucus promised to "ask questions, positive questions, non-adversarial questions and try to figure out where they're coming from". He also contends that when one listens "the more likely it is you're going to find little insights and new ways to find a solution here".

In many respects, Baucus' approach to relations with China represents a refreshing change from that embraced by many US lawmakers - including the "China experts" serving on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Indeed, transcripts of the confirmation hearings reveal that some senators believe all the difficulties in the East China Sea may be traced to China. Senator John McCain (Republican from Arizona) criticized China as "a rising threat" that seeks to be "the dominant force in Asia". He argued that the solution to regional problems is a closer US alliance with Japan.

McCain and others like him appear not to understand that many of the troubles in the East China Sea actually may be traced to a series of unsound policies embraced by Japan. The policies range from the "nationalization" of part of Diaoyu Islands in 2012 to the stubborn refusal to even acknowledge that a dispute exists in the East China Sea.

What might one expect from the new US ambassador to China? Given the evidence at hand, it appears that Baucus will seek to use his new position to pursue economic agreements and advance deals that will provide US workers with jobs. When negotiating with Chinese authorities, he will be a strong advocate for US interests. But he also will keep an open mind and be a good listener. And he will assume his new post with unbounded enthusiasm.

As the senator explained in December, he is ready for "a whole new adventure, a whole new chapter".

The author is distinguished professor of political science and director of the Graduate Program in Global Studies at Missouri State University.

(China Daily 02/17/2014 page9)