Biden Aims to Normalize US-China Dialogue in Upcoming Meeting with Xi

10

On Tuesday, President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping arrived in San Francisco, gearing up for their first face-to-face discussion in a year, set to occur at the historic Filoli Estate just outside the city. Biden, en route to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum, shared his aspiration to steer the tumultuous U.S.-China relations towards normalization, despite significant differences.

The city’s streets witnessed a blend of sentiments, with hundreds showing up along the motorcade routes, showcasing a mix of Chinese, Taiwanese, and Tibetan flags and varied opinions about Xi. Biden emphasized the importance of open communication channels, particularly in times of crisis, and clarified that the U.S. seeks to improve, not sever, ties with China.

The upcoming meeting at Filoli Estate, a 25-mile journey south of San Francisco, remains unofficially confirmed by the White House and China. This meet-up is particularly notable following the recent U.S.-China agreement to augment global renewable energy capacity by 2030, as revealed by the State Department.

A significant development is the anticipated restoration of discussions under the Military Maritime Consultative Agreement between the U.S. and China. This agreement, inactive since 2020, aims to enhance safety in air and sea operations.

The leaders’ arrival in San Francisco was marked by a diverse range of public reactions. While some celebrated Xi’s visit, others protested, calling for an end to the Chinese Communist Party. Near the Moscone Center, site of several APEC meetings, pro- and anti-China groups clashed, necessitating police intervention.

In addition to these diplomatic endeavors, Biden also attended a fundraiser for his 2024 reelection campaign. The U.S.-China relationship has been strained over various issues, including technology export controls, a Chinese spy balloon incident, and Taiwan’s political dynamics.

The Filoli Estate, known for its Georgian revival-style mansion and English Renaissance gardens, provides a serene setting for the leaders to address these tensions. The estate, famous for featuring in Jennifer Lopez’s film “The Wedding Planner,” encapsulates a message of justice, love, and a good life.

Biden’s approach to the meeting with Xi is backed by a strong U.S. economic performance, contrasting with China’s slowing growth. This backdrop sets the stage for complex discussions at the APEC summit, as the U.S. aims to balance regional and global challenges, including the Israel-Hamas conflict and support for Ukraine against Russia’s invasion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Biden-Xi Meeting

More about Biden-Xi Meeting

• Biden-Xi San Francisco Meeting
• US-China Renewable Energy Agreement
• Military Maritime Consultative Agreement
• Public Reaction to Xi’s Visit
• APEC Summit 2023 Overview