President Xi Jinping’s Final Meeting with Biden

China’s President Xi Jinping has pledged to work collaboratively with the incoming US administration during his final meeting with outgoing President Joe Biden. The leaders discussed a range of critical issues, including cybercrime, trade, Taiwan, the South China Sea, Russia, the war in Ukraine, nuclear weapons, and the role of AI technology in the military.

Strengthening US-China Relations

Xi expressed readiness to maintain communication, expand cooperation, and manage differences with the new US administration. This move is aimed at ensuring a smooth transition of the US-China relationship. Xi also noted that neither decoupling nor disrupting the supply chain would solve potential new trade wars and diplomatic tensions.

Ensuring Peaceful Competition

Both leaders emphasized the importance of ensuring competition between countries does not lead to conflict. Biden reassured his Chinese counterpart that the US has proven it is possible to maintain a peaceful relationship despite some ups and downs. The conversations are critical to ensuring global stability and security.

Control Over Nuclear Weapons

Xi and Biden agreed that human beings, not artificial intelligence, should control the decision to use nuclear weapons. This agreement is the first concrete conversation on the subject. Both leaders stressed the need to consider potential risks and develop military AI technology in a prudent and responsible manner.

China’s Role in Global Affairs

As Biden’s term ends, China’s recent actions suggest it has little interest in appeasing Washington. US officials have expressed concern over China’s increasingly close relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin, China’s military exercises around Taiwan, and its aggressive actions in the disputed South China Sea.

China’s Involvement in Latin America

China is showing increasing interest in Latin America, with President Xi planning a week-long diplomatic blitz in the region. The Asian superpower is expected to renew a free trade deal with Peru, inaugurate the deep-sea port of Chancay, and pay a state visit to Brazil’s capital. China’s growing influence in the region could pose new challenges to US power.

Conclusion

President Xi Jinping’s final meeting with outgoing President Joe Biden highlighted the potential challenges and opportunities for the incoming US administration. It also underscored the importance of maintaining peaceful competition, human control over nuclear weapons, and thoughtful development of military AI technology. As China continues to expand its influence globally, its relationship with the US will undoubtedly remain a critical factor in global stability and progress.