Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed his readiness to cooperate with President-elect Donald Trump’s administration during a crucial meeting with outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Lima, Peru. This significant discussion marked Xi’s final talks with Biden before Trump’s return to the White House on January 20, 2025.
A Call for Stability and Cooperation
Xi Jinping’s message to President Biden focused on fostering stability and continuity in U.S.-China relations amid the upcoming political shift. “China’s goal of a stable, healthy, and sustainable China-U.S. relationship remains unchanged,” Xi stated, emphasizing Beijing’s readiness to maintain open communication, broaden cooperation, and manage differences with the incoming Trump administration. Xi highlighted that constructive engagement would serve the mutual interests of both nations.
Major Topics of Discussion
The leaders discussed key issues affecting U.S.-China relations, including cybercrime, trade policies, Taiwan, and North Korea. President Biden reiterated the importance of frank discussions, stating, “We haven’t always agreed, but our conversations have always been candid. These talks are essential to ensuring that competition between our two countries does not escalate into conflict.”
The meeting took place against the backdrop of heightened U.S.-China tensions, particularly concerning Trump’s proposed 60% tariffs on Chinese imports and potential hawkish appointments in his administration, including Senator Marco Rubio as Secretary of State. Xi expressed concerns over these developments, warning against policies that could destabilize ties, saying, “Competition between major powers shouldn’t become the overriding logic of the times.”
Warnings on Taiwan and Cybersecurity
On Taiwan, Biden condemned China’s increased military activity, calling it “destabilizing.” In response, Xi argued that the “separatist activities” of Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te jeopardized peace in the region. The White House readout also revealed Biden’s call for Beijing to prevent further involvement of North Korean troops in Russia’s war on Ukraine, urging China to use its influence to avoid escalation.
Economic Challenges and Trade Disputes
Biden’s measures on trade, such as restricting U.S. investment in Chinese technology sectors, have strained economic ties. Xi asserted that policies like these could harm global supply chains and warned against “decoupling” efforts. Despite these challenges, Xi stressed that partnership and cooperation were the best paths forward, stating, “When the two countries treat each other as partner and friend… our relationship would make considerable progress.”
Can U.S.-China Relations Withstand Another Turbulent Phase?
As Trump prepares for his second term, questions loom: Will his administration seek a more confrontational or cooperative approach to China?
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Full text of President Xi Jinping’s written speech at APEC CEO Summit
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