President Trump's recent visit to China, while showcasing a seemingly amicable relationship with President Xi Jinping, concluded without any publicly announced breakthroughs, reminding us that safeguarding American interests requires more than just personal connections. A strong foreign policy must be rooted in unwavering principles, a commitment to free and fair trade, and a clear understanding of the strategic challenges posed by nations like China.

The American tradition of diplomacy is built on a foundation of strength, both economic and military. While fostering positive relationships with foreign leaders is undoubtedly beneficial, it cannot come at the expense of defending our national security, protecting American businesses, and promoting our values on the world stage.

President Trump's efforts to cultivate a personal relationship with President Xi are commendable, but the absence of concrete agreements suggests that this approach alone is insufficient to address the complex issues that define the U.S.-China relationship. These issues include trade imbalances, intellectual property theft, and China's growing military assertiveness in the South China Sea.

Conservative economists have long argued that free and fair trade is essential for economic growth and prosperity. However, they also recognize that China's state-controlled economy and unfair trade practices undermine the principles of free markets and harm American businesses. The Trump administration must continue to press China to level the playing field and abide by international trade rules.

Furthermore, the United States must maintain a strong military presence in the Indo-Pacific region to deter Chinese aggression and protect our allies. China's military buildup and its increasingly assertive behavior in the region pose a direct threat to American interests and the security of our partners.

A conservative foreign policy prioritizes national security, economic prosperity, and the promotion of American values. It recognizes that strength and resolve are essential for deterring aggression and defending our interests in a dangerous world. The Trump administration must continue to pursue a strategy that combines diplomacy with strength, and that holds China accountable for its actions.

The lack of breakthroughs during the China visit also underscores the importance of strong alliances. The United States must work closely with its allies in the Indo-Pacific region to counter China's growing influence and promote a rules-based international order.