President Biden is set to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping during the APEC summit in Peru, marking their third in-person discussion since Biden took office. This meeting is significant as it could be Biden’s last with Xi as President, focusing on critical issues including military communications and the growing Sino-Russian ties amid a changing U.S. political landscape.
President Joseph R. Biden Jr. is scheduled to convene with Chinese President Xi Jinping during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Lima, Peru, this Saturday, as confirmed by senior administration officials on Wednesday. This meeting represents a significant encounter, marking their third in-person discussion since President Biden took office, the last of which occurred one year prior in Woodside, California. This summit arises amidst a critical time when President Biden aims to stabilize relations within the Indo-Pacific region while managing the ongoing competition with China as President-elect Donald Trump prepares for his impending inauguration. Notably, this meeting holds particular importance for President Biden, potentially being the final opportunity he has to engage directly with President Xi in an official capacity during his presidency. Administration officials indicated that President Biden intends to evaluate the collaboration between the United States and China over the past four years, focusing on pertinent topics such as military communications, counternarcotics efforts, and advancements in artificial intelligence. Furthermore, it is anticipated that discussions will also encompass the growing relationship between Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, particularly as the international climate evolves. As President Biden prepares to depart for Peru on Thursday, it remains unclear what implications this discussion may have regarding China’s portrayal within America’s political landscape. The administration has not revealed specific details concerning the anticipated dialogues related to China during a subsequent meeting President Biden is set to have with President-elect Trump. Mr. Trump is reportedly contemplating the selection of several prominent figures known for their hardline stances on China, including Senator Marco Rubio for the position of Secretary of State.
The upcoming meeting between President Biden and President Xi is set against the backdrop of fluctuating geopolitical dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region. As both nations navigate complex issues ranging from military dialogue to technological advancements, the summit presents a unique opportunity to assess prior cooperation and strategize future interactions. This dialogue is particularly consequential as the Biden administration seeks to gain assurance regarding its strategy in light of an incoming administration that may adopt a different approach towards China.
In conclusion, the meeting between Presidents Biden and Xi in Lima, Peru, signifies a pivotal moment in U.S.-China relations, particularly given the potential shifts anticipated with the Trump administration. The discussions will likely cover vital areas of cooperation and the implications of Xi’s close ties with Russia. As this meeting unfolds, it may shape the trajectory of the Indo-Pacific stability and ongoing diplomatic engagement between the two countries.
Original Source: www.cbsnews.com
