Biden and Xi to Meet at APEC Summit Amid Mounting Global Tensions
U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping will meet on November 16 during the APEC summit in Lima, Peru. The discussions will focus on military communications, the fentanyl crisis, AI risks, and concerns about China’s support for Russia and its trade practices. This meeting may represent the last engagement before a new administration assumes power, potentially shifting U.S.-China relations significantly.
United States President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping are scheduled to convene on November 16 during the 2024 Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Lima, Peru, as announced by the White House. This meeting, following their last face-to-face interaction in California a year prior, aims to address significant areas of bilateral cooperation, including revitalizing military-to-military communications, combating the global fentanyl crisis, and addressing the burgeoning implications of artificial intelligence (AI). President Biden is also expected to voice serious concerns regarding China’s support for Russia amid its ongoing war against Ukraine, alongside issues regarding North Korean troop deployments in support of Russia. Additionally, he will express longstanding concerns surrounding China’s trade policies, which are perceived to be detrimental to American workers. Further discussions may encompass China’s cyber operations against U.S. critical infrastructure and their increasing military maneuvers near Taiwan and in the South China Sea, with an emphasis on the necessity of respecting human rights. This engagement is likely to be their final meeting before the incoming administration of Donald Trump in January, whose foreign policy appointees are known for their critical stance towards China. Experts suggest that no matter the direction that the next administration takes, addressing the complex and challenging relationship between the U.S. and China will be essential, particularly in light of sensitive issues involving Russia, Taiwan, and cyber matters. Moreover, President Xi is anticipated to keep a watchful eye on how Trump’s administration will handle global trade, especially concerning the possible implementation of significant tariffs on Chinese imports.
The looming meeting between Presidents Biden and Xi takes place against a backdrop of complex diplomatic relations between the United States and China. Historically, economic and strategic concerns have characterized their interactions, making bilateral discussions imperative. Recent developments, including China’s military activities and trade practices, have escalated tensions, particularly with the approach of a new U.S. administration that may adopt a more confrontational stance. This context underscores the significance of the upcoming discussions as both leaders attempt to navigate a multifaceted international relationship.
In conclusion, the forthcoming meeting between Presidents Biden and Xi at the APEC summit represents an important opportunity to address critical issues in U.S.-China relations. From military communication to trade policies and geopolitical tensions, the challenges ahead are considerable. As the next U.S. administration approaches, it will be crucial for both nations to seek pathways to cooperation amidst their differences, ensuring stability in a volatile international landscape.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
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