U.S. President Joe Biden is set to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping for what is expected to be their final face-to-face discussion of his presidency, highlighting enduring tensions between the world's two largest economies. The meeting will take place on November 16, 2024, during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit in Lima, Peru.
This upcoming meeting follows their previous discussions, the last of which occurred about a year ago near San Francisco. Senior officials from Biden's administration have stated this farewell meeting is not aimed at achieving any concrete agreement but rather at assessing the progress made over Biden's term and preparing for the upcoming transition to a new U.S. administration, with Donald Trump having recently won the presidential election.
During the trip to Peru, Biden plans to engage with Xi over various contentious issues, including Taiwan and trade relations. The U.S. has expressed increasing concern about China's military activities near Taiwan and its trade practices, which Washington regards as unfair. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan emphasized the importance of open communication channels between the countries, particularly as the political climate shifts with Trump's return to power expected to shift U.S.-China relations significantly.
The potential impact of Trump's more aggressive approach to China on bilateral relations looms large over the two leaders’ discussions. Officials hinted at focusing on ensuring the “smooth transition of power,” recognizing the significant challenges and policy gaps expected to persist between Washington and Beijing. Historical patterns of trade and diplomatic tensions have only intensified, leading to expectations of continued challenges.
Biden is also poised to address the troubling topic of North Korean troops allegedly assisting Russia's military efforts against Ukraine, marking the first time North Korean soldiers have reportedly engaged in direct combat against Ukraine. This element adds another layer of urgency to the discussions, as North Korea's involvement is seen as potentially destabilizing for both Europe and the Indo-Pacific.
Further complicity arises from China's growing support for Russia amid the Ukraine war, particularly as the U.S. claims China has been providing substantial dual-use materials to Russia. This has raised alarms, especially with the U.S. government already implementing sanctions on Chinese firms for their alleged roles in supporting Russia's military.
The nature of the dialogue is anticipated to encompass pressing global issues, including stabilizing relations not only within the Asia-Pacific region but also concerning arms control and counterterrorism initiatives. On the agenda will be renewed discussions on climate cooperation and the illegal fentanyl trade, two areas where both nations share complex interests.
Despite the broad goals, sources indicate the meeting may not yield any solid agreements. Instead, it is seen as more of a stepping stone for the incoming Trump administration to assess and recalibrate its stance on China. The senior official noted the intent to allow the new leadership sufficient time to reflect on their strategy, particularly concerning the multifaceted relationship with China.
This meeting sets the stage for not only the immediate future of U.S.-China relations but also reflects the broader geopolitical shifts occurring with Trump's win and the realignment of policy directions expected with his administration.
China's Xi Jinping is reported to have congratulated Trump on his electoral victory and expressed interest in stable U.S.-China relations, emphasizing the mutual benefits. Yet, the approach the new administration will take remains uncertain, with expectations of increased tariffs and more hawkish policies potentially souring the dynamics between the two nations.
Overall, the meeting is characterized as pivotal, not just for Biden’s presidency but as the world watches how these two global leaders navigate the complex realities of their nations' histories, shared interests, and contentious pasts.
