California: In a significant summit held at a historic California estate, US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping achieved an accord to reinstate military communications between their nations. Despite this diplomatic progress, Biden departed from the script, openly labeling Xi Jinping a “dictator” during a press conference.
The leaders engaged in a four-hour dialogue, walking through gardens to prevent escalating tensions between the world’s largest economies into a potential conflict. Their discussions also encompassed China’s commitment to curb the production of fentanyl ingredients, a move aimed at addressing the opioid epidemic in the United States.
However, the gulf between Biden and Xi on the Taiwan issue remained substantial, with Xi urging the US to cease arming the island, asserting that reunification was “unstoppable.” The divergence on this matter indicates ongoing challenges in their diplomatic relationship.
The summit marked their first in-person meeting since November 2022, and tensions had escalated following the US’s downing of an alleged Chinese spy balloon earlier in the year. Despite the strained backdrop, Biden characterized the talks as “some of the most constructive and productive discussions we’ve had.”
The restoration of high-level military communications between the US and China, a vital step in avoiding potential conflicts, was emphasized. Additionally, the leaders committed to discussions on artificial intelligence and bolstering cooperation on climate change in the lead-up to the COP28 conference in Dubai.
However, the diplomatic day ended on a candid note as Biden, departing from the stage, reiterated his stance on Xi as a dictator, stating, “Well look, he is.”
While the comment did not elicit an immediate response from Xi, he later emphasized the significance of strong US-China ties, indicating a desire for partnership and friendship.
Despite challenges and candid moments, the summit aimed at fostering understanding between the two nations and addressing critical issues that impact global dynamics.
Stay tuned for comprehensive coverage on the evolving US-China relations.
