At the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Peru, US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping met for their last time as leaders. This meeting, occurring before the transition to a new US administration under Donald Trump, was marked by a candid discussion of their decade-long relationship, and the challenges ahead. Both leaders emphasized the importance of maintaining stability in US-China relations, acknowledging the tensions that have characterized their interactions, particularly during Trump's previous tenure.
Xi expressed China's readiness to work with the incoming US administration, highlighting a commitment to foster communication and manage differences. This conciliatory tone was underscored by Xi's appeal for a stable relationship, despite the history of trade tensions that saw tariffs and countermeasures escalate between the two nations. Biden, on his part, voiced concerns over China's military support to Russia and the stationing of North Korean troops in Russia, reflecting broader geopolitical anxieties.
The summit also served as a platform for broader discussions on economic cooperation. The leaders underscored the significance of reducing tariffs and trade barriers to stimulate economic growth. Furthermore, there was mutual interest in addressing global challenges such as food security and artificial intelligence risks.
As Biden prepares to leave office, the outcome of this meeting sets a tone for the future of US-China relations under Trump's renewed leadership. While Xi seeks to ensure continuity and stability, the path forward remains uncertain amid complex geopolitical dynamics. The meeting in Peru thus symbolizes both an end and a potential new beginning in the intricate dance of diplomacy between these superpowers.
