Biden and Xi Make Progress on Climate and Military Ties at Crucial APEC Meeting
The Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit held in California saw a significant encounter between US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping on November 16. Against a backdrop of strained relations resulting from various events over the past year, including the visit of former US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taiwan, this meeting held great importance.
Numerous pressing issues added to the significance of the meeting, such as ongoing conflicts in Europe and the Middle East, concerns among global allies about the implications of the US-China rivalry on their foreign policies, China’s slowing economic growth, the fentanyl crisis in the US, and upcoming elections in Taiwan and the US.
The main objectives of the meeting were to effectively manage competition, mitigate potential risks that could lead to conflict, and ensure open communication channels. Both sides aimed to prevent the negative consequences of heightened competition and foster an environment for diplomatic engagement.
Given the nature of the competition and strained relations, officials from both countries had low expectations for the meeting. While the leaders reached agreements on several issues, some matters remained unresolved.
President Biden referred to the discussions as constructive and productive, emphasizing the progress made. President Xi acknowledged the challenges in US-China relations and stressed that turning their backs on each other was not an option.
Key takeaways from the meeting include:
1. Restoration of military-to-military communication: Both leaders agreed on the importance of this communication, given its significance in preventing miscalculations and conflicts. This move aims to avoid accidents or misunderstandings, as was the case during the Cold War between the US and the Soviet Union.
2. Taiwan issue: President Xi expressed his concern about the US arming Taiwan, emphasizing the unstoppable nature of reunification. The US reiterated that its stance on Taiwan remained unchanged.
3. Combating fentanyl trafficking: China pledged to intensify efforts against chemical companies to combat drug trafficking, particularly illicit fentanyl, which contributes to the alarming surge in overdose deaths in the US. The success of this joint initiative is crucial for Biden, addressing a key issue concerning US citizens.
Experts believe that these agreements on climate change, fentanyl trafficking, and military communication are significant steps forward. They highlight the importance of such progress, especially ahead of the COP28 climate change conference in Dubai.
While some experts view the agreements as diplomatic and political statements, their real impact remains uncertain. China’s approach in curbing drug trafficking and addressing climate change will determine the effectiveness of these initiatives.
Other points of discussion included the war between Israel and Hamas, technology exports to China, artificial intelligence, and nuclear issues. The meeting provided an opportunity for both leaders to be clear about their concerns and expectations.
The fact that a meeting took place and that the leaders shook hands is already seen as a positive sign. Establishing ongoing communication channels is considered a success in itself.
As the meeting began, President Biden stressed the importance of clear understanding and communication. President Xi agreed, emphasizing that conflict and confrontation would have dire consequences for both sides.
While a significant improvement in US-China communication has been observed over the past four months, sustaining this positive momentum remains uncertain.
In conclusion, the APEC meeting between Biden and Xi marked progress on crucial issues such as climate change, military ties, and drug trafficking. Despite ongoing challenges, this meeting provided an opportunity for both leaders to engage in direct dialogue, fostering better understanding and communication. The agreements reached are seen as steps in the right direction, but their effectiveness will depend on the actions taken by both countries moving forward.
