In a meeting, U..S President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping held four-hour talks at the Filoli residence near San Francisco on November 16, marking the first face-to-face encounter in over a year. The meeting, which took place on the sidelines of the APEC summit, was described as "constructive" despite limited immediate outcomes. The discussions aimed at addressing the longstanding and complex issues that have strained relations between the two nations.
President Biden, in a press conference, called the talks with President Xi "one of the most constructive and productive discussions we've had." He emphasized the importance of progress in bilateral relations, stating that both parties agreed to continue dialogue even in times of disagreement. Biden acknowledged the historical differences between the two nations but emphasized the significance of mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.
Chinese President Xi Jinping echoed similar sentiments, acknowledging the historical challenges in China-US relations.
"Turning our backs on each other is not an option," he stated, emphasizing the need for both nations to rise above their differences and coexist peacefully on a global scale.
Despite the optimistic tone from both leaders, the talks resulted in little more than a commitment to ongoing dialogue, with minimal progress on critical issues that have strained relations.
Main Results of the Meeting
- Resumption of Military Engagement: The US and China have agreed to restart direct military engagement. This move follows a hiatus in high-level military contacts since August 2022, triggered by a visit to Taiwan by former US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. The goal is to prevent misunderstandings or miscalculations that could potentially lead to open conflict.
- Joint Efforts Against Illicit Drugs: Both nations have committed to intensifying efforts against global illicit drug production and trafficking, particularly focusing on synthetic drugs like fentanyl. A working group will be established to coordinate actions between law enforcement agencies to address this shared concern.
- Artificial Intelligence Consultations: Recognizing the risks associated with artificial intelligence systems, the US and China will hold consultations between their governments to address these challenges.
- Increased Passenger Flights: Biden and Xi pledged to work towards a significant increase in scheduled passenger flights between the two countries. They also advocated for the expansion of various exchanges, including educational, cultural, sports, and business programs.
- Taiwan Issue: President Biden reiterated the US commitment to the "one China" policy regarding Taiwan but emphasized opposition to any unilateral changes to the status quo. Xi Jinping labeled the Taiwan issue as "the most important and sensitive" in Sino-American relations, calling for peaceful means to resolve cross-strait disputes.
- Panda Diplomacy: China will return giant pandas to American zoos as a gesture of goodwill. Xi Jinping referred to pandas as "envoys of friendship between the Chinese and American people." The specifics of the return were not disclosed, but it is hinted that the next pair may arrive at the California Zoo in San Diego.
While the meeting did not result in sweeping agreements, the leaders expressed a commitment to ongoing dialogue and finding common ground on key issues affecting both nations.
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