President Joe Biden is preparing for a final meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping ahead of the expected transition of power to Donald Trump, which could bring significant shifts in U.S.-China relations. According to U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, the purpose of this encounter, set to take place at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Peru, is to navigate through the “delicate period of transition” and ensure that the ongoing competition between the U.S. and China does not escalate into conflict.
This final discussion between Biden and Xi is set against the backdrop of a looming trade war and diplomatic uncertainties following Trump’s predicted return to the presidency. The prospect of Trump resuming power has raised concerns that the progress made in U.S.-China relations under Biden may be undone. Trump’s win over Kamala Harris has stunned the international community, casting a shadow over the APEC summit, which gathers leaders from 21 countries. His approach to China has been marked by a confrontational stance, including threats of imposing steep tariffs on Chinese goods to address what he perceives as a trade imbalance.
Biden’s meeting with Xi, which will be their third encounter, is expected to highlight the progress made in relations between the U.S. and China. During the summit, Xi expressed concerns about the rise of unilateralism and protectionism, while Biden acknowledged a time of significant political change, especially in the context of the geopolitical dynamics of the Asia-Pacific region. Biden’s ongoing efforts to strengthen U.S. alliances with Japan and South Korea are seen as crucial in addressing regional security challenges, particularly regarding North Korea’s cooperation with Russia.
The meeting comes amid concerns that Trump’s return to power could undermine the international alliances Biden has cultivated, especially in areas such as climate change, trade, and the ongoing wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. With his “America First” agenda, Trump’s policies are expected to impact not only China but the broader global economy and geopolitical stability. As Biden prepares to head to the G20 summit next week, Trump’s influence will continue to loom large over the international diplomatic landscape.
