In the midst of burgeoning global tensions and complex geopolitical landscapes, President Joe Biden is scheduled to convene with Chinese President Xi Jinping next month in San Francisco. The confirmation of this pivotal encounter, underscored by White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, comes amidst a plethora of international pressures that have strained U.S.-China relations.
While inquiries arose regarding a potential sideline discussion during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in November, Jean-Pierre put to rest any speculation. "Our stance regarding China remains consistent. We're navigating through intense competition, which necessitates rigorous diplomacy. You'll witness this first-hand when President Biden engages in significant, albeit challenging, discussions with President Xi," she articulated.
Edward Lawrence, a reporter for Fox Business, probed Jean-Pierre on the certainty of this face-to-face engagement given the absence of a formal acceptance from the Chinese side. Responding, Jean-Pierre reiterated President Biden's anticipation for the meeting, emphasizing the constructive nature they aim for. Pressed further, she definitively stated, "Yes, the meeting is set to take place."
Although the precise day for the bilateral dialogue during the APEC summit, spanning Nov. 11-17, is yet to be determined, its importance can't be overstated. Notably, the two leaders haven't sat down together since their last encounter in Bali during the Group of 20 summit the previous year. Biden, expressing his regret over Xi's absence at the subsequent G20 summit in New Delhi, hinted at their impending rendezvous, remarking, "I am going to get to see him."
Their scheduled San Francisco dialogue assumes profound significance against the backdrop of recent diplomatic strains. Recalling incidents like the Chinese spy balloon incident over U.S. airspace and Biden's vocal criticisms of Xi, it's evident that the dynamics between the two powerhouses have been turbulent.
Adding layers to this intricate scenario are the comprehensive discussions undertaken by high-ranking U.S. officials including Secretary of Treasury Janet Yellen, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, and others. With the U.S. proactively assisting Israel during its conflict with Hamas and simultaneously bolstering Ukraine against Russia's persistent aggression, China's stance remains crucial.
China's symbiotic relationship with Russia, especially considering Beijing's indispensable financial support to Moscow, becomes pivotal in the global arena. With Xi recognized as Russian President Vladimir Putin's principal financial mainstay, Beijing's backing is vital for Russia's ongoing efforts. As the Biden administration cautioned China against aiding Russia in its Ukrainian warfare, the alignment of global alliances becomes more intricate.
Since Russia initiated its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the U.S. and its allies have relentlessly slapped Moscow with a barrage of economic sanctions. This persistent financial clampdown has catapulted Russia to the unenviable position of being the most-sanctioned nation globally, surpassing even North Korea and Iran. Consequently, China's role as a linchpin for an increasingly cornered Russia has been accentuated.
Earlier this month, a significant tête-à-tête transpired between Xi and Putin in Beijing, focusing on fortifying their bond. This interaction was closely followed by Xi's telephonic conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, marking their first discourse since the onset of the Kremlin-led aggression.
