The envoy underscored a "right strategic perception" as being of "fundamental and overarching importance" to the future of China-US relations, noting that this mindset dictates the choice between conflict and cooperation.

He cautioned that if the two nations continue to view one another through a zero-sum lens, competition and conflict would become inevitable. Conversely, by perceiving the two countries as a "community with a shared future", mutually beneficial cooperation would become the natural path forward.

In a direct appeal for a shift in US policy, Xie challenged the narrative that China's success must come at the expense of American prosperity, noting that a peaceful, stable and prosperous China should be seen as a global contribution rather than a threat.

"During the tariff war, many American friends found upon further reflection that China-US cooperation not only is indispensable for both our countries but also brings precious stability and certainty to a turbulent world," he said.

While differences between China and the United States are inevitable, they must be managed by respecting each other's core interests and major concerns, so as to install a "safety valve" for bilateral relations, Xie said.

The envoy reiterated that the Taiwan question is the "first red line that must not be crossed," emphasizing that it is a matter of China's sovereignty, security and territorial integrity that is "close to the hearts of the 1.4 billion Chinese people".

Xie pointed out that the three Sino-US Joint Communiques are binding intergovernmental agreements fundamentally centered on the One-China principle.

"Currently, the biggest threat toward peace across the Taiwan Strait comes from the separatist activities and dangerous provocations by the 'Taiwan independence' forces," Xie said. "We hope the US side will earnestly abide by the One-China principle and the three Sino-US Joint Communiques."

In his speech, Xie noted a "positive rebound" in American sentiment toward China, citing a poll conducted last year by the Chicago Council on Global Affairs, which found 53 percent of Americans favor friendly cooperation and engagement with China.

This shift in sentiment was particularly pronounced among the younger generation, who showed greater support for bilateral cooperation, according to the poll.

Xie highlighted a vibrant "new chapter" in bilateral friendship, noting that 55 years after the historic era of ping-pong diplomacy, modern initiatives like "pickleball diplomacy" are building fresh bridges between the two nations.

He pointed to the "50,000 in Five Years" initiative and the viral social media trend of "Becoming Chinese" — where young Americans adopt Chinese lifestyle habits — as evidence of a deep-seated desire for connection.

The 50,000 in Five Years initiative was proposed by Xi in November 2023, and aims to bring 50,000 young Americans to China for exchange and study programs over a five-year period.

"Our people are eager to reach out to each other and come closer together," Xie said.

The ambassador said the 240-hour visa-free transit policy for US citizens has become so popular that some Americans have "complained" to the Embassy that 10 days is too short to explore the country's culture and modern development.

Reaffirming that China's doors will always be open, the ambassador called on Washington to match Beijing's efforts in facilitating travel and provide greater convenience for people-to-people exchanges.

In particular, he urged the US to act in the same spirit of cooperation by removing "bottlenecks" in visa applications, border entry and the availability of direct flights.

Looking toward the year ahead, Xie outlined a dual-track strategy for cooperation, calling for a strengthening of traditional ties in trade, agriculture and energy while pivoting toward emerging global challenges.

He identified artificial intelligence, biomedicine and law enforcement, particularly counternarcotics and combating transnational crime, as the "new growth points" that are crucial for a modern partnership.

Contributing to the festive atmosphere of the New Year reception, a special concert, titled Happy Chinese New Year iSING! Festival, led by renowned bass Tian Haojiang, brought guests a performance that artfully blended Eastern and Western musical traditions to emphasize the spirit of cultural exchange.