President Joe Biden of the United States and China’s President Xi Jinping engaged on key issues, including Taiwan, artificial intelligence (AI), and the ongoing battle against fentanyl.
This discussion marks a pivotal move towards reinstating regular direct dialogues between the leaders of the world’s two leading powers.
Rekindling Military and Diplomatic Ties
The call was characterized by the White House as both “candid and constructive,” and it was the first such conversation since the leaders’ previous summit in California six months earlier.
That meeting had rejuvenated military cooperation between the two countries and had led to a mutual commitment to combat the flow of fentanyl from China.
Upcoming High-Level Engagements
The conversation serves as a precursor to several high-profile visits between the two nations, highlighting a series of diplomatic engagements. Notably, U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and Secretary of State Antony Blinken are scheduled for visits to China, underscoring the importance of sustained dialogue across various levels of governance.
Sustaining Dialogue to Prevent Conflict
Biden has been an advocate for maintaining open lines of communication to prevent competitive tensions from escalating into direct conflict. This approach is reflected in the emphasis on more frequent leader-to-leader engagements, beyond the annual in-person summits.
Stability Over Conflict
President Xi Jinping expressed a vision for the bilateral relationship, emphasizing the avoidance of conflict and confrontation. He advocated for a stable and trouble-free approach to managing the complexities of China-U.S. relations.
Taiwan: A Central Issue
The leaders discussed the sensitive issue of Taiwan, especially in light of the island’s forthcoming presidential inauguration. President Xi reiterated China’s stance on Taiwan, emphasizing its significance as a “red line.” Biden, on his part, reaffirmed the U.S.’s “One China” policy, highlighting opposition to any coercive attempts to alter Taiwan’s status.
Maritime and Security Concerns
Biden raised concerns about China’s actions in the South China Sea, including its recent efforts to block the Philippines from resupplying its forces. This matter is particularly sensitive, given the U.S.’s treaty obligations to defend the Philippines.
Fentanyl Trafficking and AI Talks
The leaders also revisited their commitment to curb fentanyl trafficking, a pledge made during their last summit. Furthermore, they agreed to hold formal discussions on the promises and risks associated with advanced AI technology following a global call for regulatory safeguards.
Addressing Human Rights and Cybersecurity
Biden didn’t shy away from tough issues, addressing concerns over human rights in China and cybersecurity threats. He specifically warned against election interference and cyberattacks on critical U.S. infrastructure.
Economic Practices and Technology Transfer
The dialogue also covered economic concerns, with Biden expressing worries over China’s unfair economic practices. He reassured that the U.S. would continue to safeguard its security and economic interests, including limiting the transfer of advanced technology to China.
Xi’s Response to U.S. Policies
In response, Xi Jinping lamented the U.S.’s measures that he perceives as attempts to suppress China’s technological and economic growth, arguing that such actions create risks rather than mitigating them.
Anticipating Yellen’s Visit
The upcoming visit by Secretary Yellen to China is poised to focus on pressing Chinese counterparts on unfair trade practices. This visit is critical, given the existing tensions over economic policies and trade practices between the two nations.
Addressing Global Economic Stability
Amidst discussions on trade and economic policies, concerns over China’s dominance in the green energy sector and its impact on global prices were also highlighted. Yellen’s visit will likely address these issues alongside the broader implications for global economic stability.
A Foundation for Future Engagements
This recent Biden-Xi call lays a foundation for future diplomatic and economic engagements, reflecting a mutual recognition of the need for continuous and constructive dialogue.
