Chinese President Xi Jinping recently concluded his final meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit held in Lima, Peru. This meeting, held on November 16, 2024, marked the first dialogue between the two leaders since April and came just weeks before Donald Trump is set to take office again as President of the United States. With tensions surrounding various global issues, this encounter was not only pivotal for U.S.-China relations but also foreshadowed the challenges Trump’s administration might pose moving forward.
During their two-hour meeting, Xi conveyed China’s intention to maintain cooperative relations with the incoming administration, emphasizing, "China’s goal of a stable, healthy and sustainable China-U.S. relationship remains unchanged." He acknowledged the fluctuations inherent in the bilateral relationship but reassured Biden of China’s readiness to engage with the new U.S. leadership. Xi stated, "China is ready to work with the new U.S. administration to maintain communication, expand cooperation and manage differences." This was significant as both leaders recognized the delicate balance they must strive for to avoid deterioration of ties.
A key point of contention during their discussions was China’s influence over international affairs, especially concerning Russia and the potential ramifications of Trump's anticipated 'America First' policies—an agenda known for its focus on protectionism and high tariffs on foreign goods. Amidst this backdrop, both leaders seemed acutely aware of the rising stakes, with Biden pointing out the increased risks of conflict as the new administration prepares to assume power.
National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan noted Biden’s insistence on keeping open lines of communication even after he departs from the White House. The former president-delegate’s plan to introduce blanket tariffs of up to 60% on certain Chinese imports raised alarms, especially since many within the U.S. government are forecasting potential economic repercussions from such aggressive trade measures. Trump, known for his not-so-subtle combative stance toward China, seems poised to renew hostilities reminiscent of the trade war initiated during his first term.
Meanwhile, Biden endeavored to ease tensions by taking a more diplomatic approach than his predecessor. No major breakthroughs were reported from the meeting, which is telling of the persistent issues overshadowing U.S.-China relations. Among the topics addressed were cybercrime, trade, North Korea's military activities, Taiwan, and the South China Sea, all of which remain hot-button issues likely to be pivotal as Trump resumes his role as the primary figure on the American diplomatic stage.
Xi and Biden’s dialogue highlighted the growing complexity of U.S.-China relations as they navigate various direct confrontations and underlying issues. Xi reiterated the need for both nations to navigate their competition with mutual respect rather than enmity, indicating, "When the two countries treat each other as partners and friends, pursue common ground whilst shelving differences, and assist each other’s success, our relationship will see considerable progress." This sentiment, albeit hopeful, poses challenges as relations have often been fraught with accusations ranging from cyberattacks to trade manipulation.
The conversation surrounding Taiwan also escalated during the meeting, with Biden calling for China to cease its military threats against the island. Xi countered, framing Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te’s stance as detrimental to regional stability. The dichotomy between their perspectives on Taiwan showcases long-standing divisions: the U.S. recognizes Taiwan's de facto independence and supports it militarily, whereas China views the island as part of its territory—an ancient but unresolved tension.
Domestic reactions to the Xi-Biden meeting varied, with Taiwan’s government endorsing Biden’s remarks. Taiwan's foreign ministry openly thanked Biden for his supportive comments, aimed at countering the narrative within China. Taiwan's stance on its independence remains steadfast, opposing Beijing's claims of sovereignty, which serves to intensify U.S.-China rivalries.
China, for its part, expressed apprehension about the future of its economic relations with the U.S., particularly as Beijing attempts to recover from the impact of sanctions and restrictions on high-tech sectors set forth by the Biden administration. The meeting served as both nations’ chance to reflect on their shared history of negotiations and adversities, with Xi advocating for dialogue as the primary tool for conflict resolution. He stated, "If either side sees the other as merely adversarial, we risk diminishing progress and achievable solutions."
Many analysts view the upcoming Trump administration as potentially waxing more confrontational, particularly with the possibility of appointing individuals known for their hawkish views on China to key positions. Suggestions of appointing figures like Senator Marco Rubio and Congressman Mike Waltz could signal a return to more aggressive U.S. policymaking, igniting fears of renewed military tensions and economic warfare, especially concerning technological advancements and maritime territorial disputes.
Beyond their discussions of conflicts and diplomacy, the meeting indicated both leaders are still aware of the pressing global issues like nuclear disarmament; both recognized the importance of human judgment over artificial intelligence when discussing decisions about nuclear weapons. The acknowledgment of AI’s limitations reflects concerns over technological advances potentially outpacing ethical governance.
The APEC summit, with its focus on collaboration and economic policy-making across the Asia-Pacific, provided fertile ground for global leaders to reassess the new realties ushered by the upcoming Trump administration. Xi’s appearance and stance appeared partly motivated by China’s broader strategy to cement its influence not just within Asia but also throughout Latin America—illustrated by Xi’s engagements planned post-summit, including significant diplomacy aimed at securing trade agreements and strategic partnerships.
The geopolitical chessboard now lays extensively transformed; as we enter this new chapter of U.S.-China relations, the importance of diplomacy and transparent communication cannot be overstated. The multitude of issues at hand—from trade wars to cybersecurity to military skirmishes—marks the necessity for sustained dialogue aimed at fostering stability, not just for both nations but for the world at large. Though the path may be rocky, the future hinges on how effectively both leaders navigate the complex web of interactions awaiting them.
