Biden and Xi's Final Summit: Navigating Global Shifts as Trump Era Looms
Peru, Thursday, 14 November 2024.
President Biden will meet Chinese President Xi in Peru this Saturday, marking their last encounter before Trump’s administration takes over. The meeting aims to solidify progress on shared concerns and emphasize the need for stable communication channels during the transition of power.
Strategic Dialogue Amidst Global Changes
As President Joe Biden and President Xi Jinping prepare to meet on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Lima, Peru, the geopolitical stage is set for a significant transition. Scheduled for November 16, 2024, this meeting marks the third and likely final in-person dialogue between the leaders during Biden’s presidency[1]. While the primary focus is on maintaining open communication channels, the session is expected to address a spectrum of critical issues, including the global fentanyl crisis, technological advancements, and climate challenges[2].
Continuity and Change in US-China Relations
The Biden administration has largely followed the Trump-era policies towards China, maintaining tariffs and enforcing export controls on sensitive technologies[3]. This continuity indicates a strategic alignment on managing the complex US-China relationship, emphasizing the need for stability as Donald Trump prepares to assume office again in January 2024. Biden’s approach aims to ensure that strategic dialogues remain intact, particularly at the military level, to prevent misunderstandings during this transition period[4].
Navigating a Tough Diplomatic Landscape
The meeting in Lima is not just about consolidating past efforts but also about managing future diplomatic relations amidst shifting global alliances. Xi Jinping’s recent strengthening of ties with Russia, North Korea, and Iran poses new challenges for US foreign policy[5]. Biden plans to express concerns over these alliances and China’s military activities around Taiwan, aiming to underscore the importance of human rights and fair trade practices[6]. As Trump assembles his team of China hawks, including Rep. Mike Waltz and possibly Sen. Marco Rubio, the potential for a more confrontational stance is palpable[7].
The Implications of a New Administration
With Trump’s impending leadership, there is a mix of anticipation and uncertainty about how US-China relations will evolve. Analysts predict a tougher US posture, particularly with Trump’s campaign promises to impose significant tariffs on Chinese imports to protect American industries[8]. The meeting between Biden and Xi thus serves as a crucial moment to set a tone of continuity and caution, ensuring that while administrations change, the complexities of international diplomacy require careful management and negotiation[9].