In a high-stakes diplomatic encounter, Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Joe Biden met for what could be their last face-to-face dialogue before a significant leadership transition.
According to the Washington Examiner, during their meeting at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Lima, Peru, Xi urged Biden to "make the wise choice" to ensure "peaceful coexistence" between the two nations while addressing concerns about the incoming Trump administration.
The summit covered crucial topics, including Taiwan, economic relations, the Ukraine conflict, fentanyl production, and artificial intelligence. Both leaders acknowledged the complex nature of U.S.-China relations, with Xi emphasizing the overall stability maintained despite occasional tensions.
The meeting's timing proved particularly significant given the recent U.S. presidential election results. Xi addressed the upcoming administration change directly, maintaining China's commitment to stable relations despite President-elect Trump's proposed 60% tariff on Chinese imports.
Xi's Commerce Minister, Wang Wentao, delivered a speech warning against economic isolation and protectionist policies. The message reflected China's growing concern about potential trade restrictions under the incoming administration.
China's leader emphasized his country's willingness to maintain positive relations, as conveyed in his statement:
China is ready to work with the new U.S. administration to maintain communication, expand cooperation, and manage differences so as to strive for a steady transition of the China-U.S. relationship for the benefit of the two peoples.
President Biden highlighted achievements from their previous encounters, particularly noting advancements in military communication, artificial intelligence, and drug trafficking efforts. His remarks revealed a more personal aspect of their diplomatic relationship.
The U.S. President acknowledged the complex nature of their countries' relationship while emphasizing the importance of preventing competition from escalating into conflict. Biden referenced their extensive history of personal meetings and private discussions.
Biden stated:
Our two countries cannot let any of this competition veer into conflict. And as I said, that's our responsibility. And over the last four years, I think we've proven it's possible to have this relationship.
The meeting occurred against a backdrop of recent diplomatic tensions, including incidents such as the Chinese spy balloon controversy and Biden's public characterization of Xi as a "dictator." These events have tested the resilience of U.S.-China relations.
Current trade policies remain a significant point of contention, with existing tariffs ranging from 25% to 100% on various Chinese products, including steel, aluminum, batteries, and semiconductors. The potential for increased trade restrictions under the incoming administration adds another layer of complexity.
Wang Wentao's delivered message emphasized China's opposition to economic isolation, stating that attempts to block cooperation and divide an interconnected world represent a backward step. This perspective highlights the growing concern over potential trade restrictions.
The APEC summit meeting in Lima, Peru, marked a critical moment in U.S.-China relations as President Xi Jinping and President Joe Biden engaged in their final official dialogue before the upcoming U.S. administration change. The encounter centered on Xi's call for wise choices in maintaining peaceful coexistence while addressing concerns about President-elect Trump's proposed trade policies. The meeting covered essential topics, from Taiwan to artificial intelligence, with both leaders acknowledging the history of their complex relationship.
