Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Joe Biden Meet in Lima to Chart Future of China-U.S. Relations
On November 16, on the margins of the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Lima, Peru, Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Joe Biden held a significant meeting to discuss the future course of China-U.S. relations. This marked their first meeting in a year, providing an opportunity for both leaders to reflect on the developments over the past four years and to set a constructive path forward.
According to a spokesperson from the Chinese Foreign Ministry, the two presidents engaged in a candid, in-depth, and constructive dialogue. They reviewed the journey of bilateral relations, drawing experiences and insights to inform future cooperation. The conversation focused on advancing dialogue, managing differences effectively during the U.S. government transition period, and addressing regional and international issues of mutual interest.
President Xi likened the China-U.S. relationship to a mansion, emphasizing the need to build upon its foundations. He highlighted seven key experiences and inspirations that should guide both nations: maintaining correct strategic perceptions, matching words with actions, treating each other as equals, respecting red lines and paramount principles, enhancing dialogue and cooperation, meeting people’s expectations, and shouldering responsibilities as major countries.
“History tells us that China and the U.S. stand to gain from cooperation and lose from confrontation,” President Xi noted, underscoring that the so-called “Thucydides’s Trap” is not an inevitable outcome. He stressed that a new Cold War should neither be fought nor can it be won, and that attempts to contain China are unwise and bound to fail.
The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to seven guiding principles for China-U.S. relations, including mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and responsible management of competitive aspects. They agreed to uphold these principles to stabilize bilateral relations and ensure a smooth transition.
Both presidents spoke positively about strategic communication, regular contact between diplomatic and security teams, and dialogue mechanisms on military relations, economic and trade ties, and financial issues. They noted progress in areas such as counter-narcotics, climate change, artificial intelligence, and people-to-people exchanges since their last meeting.
On artificial intelligence, the leaders emphasized the importance of addressing risks associated with AI systems, enhancing international cooperation, and promoting AI for the good of all. They affirmed the need to maintain human control over the decision to use nuclear weapons and adopt a prudent and responsible approach when developing military AI applications.
The spokesperson highlighted that both sides did not shy away from discussing differences. President Xi reiterated China’s principled positions on major issues, including the Taiwan question, the South China Sea, trade and technology development, cybersecurity, and international and regional matters.
On the Taiwan question, President Xi emphasized that the one-China principle and the three China-U.S. joint communiqués are the political foundation of China-U.S. relations and must be observed. He stressed that cross-Strait peace and stability are incompatible with “Taiwan independence” separatist activities.
Regarding the South China Sea, President Xi stated that China firmly upholds its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests. He urged the United States not to get involved in bilateral disputes over relevant islands and reefs and to refrain from aiding provocations.
Addressing concerns over trade and technology, President Xi noted that the Chinese people’s right to development should not be deprived or ignored. He cautioned against decoupling and supply-chain disruptions, emphasizing that such moves are not solutions to challenges.
On cybersecurity, President Xi refuted allegations of cyberattacks from China, stating that there is no evidence supporting such claims. He affirmed that China is itself a target of international cyberattacks and consistently opposes all forms of such activities.
“China’s goal of a stable, healthy, and sustainable China-U.S. relationship remains unchanged,” President Xi stressed. He reaffirmed China’s commitment to mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation, as well as its determination to safeguard its sovereignty, security, and development interests.
The meeting in Lima signifies a mutual desire to maintain stability in China-U.S. relations and to work collaboratively for the benefit of both nations and the global community. As major countries, China and the United States have a responsibility to inject certainty and positive energy into an increasingly turbulent world.
Reference(s):
Chinese Foreign Ministry's overview of Xi-Biden meeting in Lima
cgtn.com
