During their last meeting at the APEC summit in Peru, President Joe Biden and President Xi Jinping discussed the importance of maintaining communication and cooperation amidst uncertainties in U.S.-China relations, especially with the incoming Trump administration. Xi emphasized the need for collaboration to ensure a stable China-U.S. relationship, while Biden focused on the significant challenges that lay ahead, particularly regarding North Korea and global security issues.
On the final occasion of their meeting, Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Joe Biden engaged in discussions on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit held in Lima, Peru. Their discourse revolved around various pressing issues, including the North Korean situation and China’s ties with Russia. Xi expressed a readiness to collaborate with any upcoming U.S. administration, particularly in light of President-elect Donald Trump’s anticipated protectionist policies, emphasizing the importance of a stable relationship between the two nations for global harmony.
President Xi underscored that communication and cooperation between the U.S. and China are vital to prevent further deterioration of their bilateral relationship. He remarked, “China is ready to work with a new U.S. administration to maintain communication, expand cooperation and manage differences,” stressing that a constructive relationship is crucial for the benefit of both nations and humanity at large. Xi’s message, though indirectly aimed at Trump, highlighted the need for mutual understanding and avoidance of decoupling in the face of emerging technological advancements.
The U.S.-China relationship has seen a steady decline due to various geopolitical tensions, including trade disputes, human rights concerns, and military provocations in the Asia-Pacific region. The complexities of this relationship were significantly amplified with the rise of Donald Trump’s administration, which adopted an ‘America First’ strategy, raising concerns about increased tariffs and protective trade measures against China. Additionally, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and North Korea’s burgeoning alliances with Russia have added a layer of urgency in discussions between the U.S. and China.
In summation, the final meeting between Presidents Xi and Biden at the APEC summit underscored the challenges and uncertainties facing U.S.-China relations, particularly with the transition of power in the U.S. Xi’s willingness to engage with a future Trump administration may shape the trajectory of these relations moving forward. As both leaders reflected on the depth and importance of their ongoing communication, they acknowledged the necessity of cooperation to avert conflict and foster a stable global environment.
Original Source: www.pbs.org
