President Biden and China’s leader, Xi Jinping, engaged in a crucial call on Tuesday morning to address a wide range of issues, including both cooperation and conflict. The White House revealed that the topics on the agenda included fighting narcotics production, the Middle East conflict, and China’s support of Russia during the Ukraine war.
The call, described as a “check-in” rather than a summit with concrete outcomes, comes at a pivotal political moment as both countries work to stabilize their relationship following a multi-decade low last year. The conversation took place ahead of upcoming visits to China by Treasury Secretary Janet L. Yellen and Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken, marking the first visits by cabinet members this year.
Since last summer, both leaders have been working to prevent tensions between their nations. President Biden, focused on his re-election campaign, and President Xi, dealing with domestic issues such as a troubled economy and military corruption, have met several times in person, including a summit in November at a lush estate in Woodside, outside San Francisco.
During the call, President Biden planned to address China’s aggression in the Pacific, specifically regarding Taiwan and the South China Sea. The Biden administration has warned China to rein in its coast guard ships in the South China Sea and has expressed concerns about Chinese military activities near Taiwan.
Additionally, President Biden intended to emphasize the importance of China not aiding Russia in rebuilding its military-industrial base, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The U.S. also sought China’s assistance in curbing attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea by Iran-backed Houthi forces of Yemen.
Furthermore, President Biden aimed to collaborate with China on various issues, including limiting the export of chemicals used to make fentanyl, senior-level military talks, discussions on artificial intelligence, and climate change policy.
The call between President Biden and President Xi underscores the ongoing efforts to manage competition responsibly and maintain contact between the two nations amid a complex global landscape.
