China's Xi Jinping Signals Readiness to Collaborate with Incoming US Administration in Final Meeting with Biden

Chinese leader Xi Jinping met with U.S. President Joe Biden for the last time on Saturday, as he prepared for the transition to President-elect Donald Trump and his "America First" policies. During their meeting at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Lima, Peru, Biden was expected to urge Xi to discourage North Korea from further supporting Russia's war in Ukraine.

Xi did not mention Trump by name but expressed concern over the incoming president's protectionist rhetoric. He indicated that China is ready to work with the new U.S. administration to maintain communication, expand cooperation, and manage differences. "China is ready to work with a new US administration to maintain communication, expand cooperation and manage differences so as to strive for a steady transition of the China-US relationship for the benefit of the two peoples," Xi said through an interpreter.

US-China Relations and Global Impact

Xi emphasised that a stable relationship between China and the U.S. is crucial not only for both countries but also for global stability. "Make the wise choice," he urged, highlighting the importance of finding ways for major countries to coexist peacefully. Xi's remarks were delivered firmly before reporters.

Biden reflected on his long-standing relationship with Xi, noting their candid conversations over the years. "We haven't always agreed but our conversations have always been candid and always been frank. We've never kidded one another," Biden said. He believes these discussions help prevent misunderstandings and ensure competition does not escalate into conflict.

Economic Concerns and Future Challenges

The meeting followed a previous encounter between Xi and Biden at last year's APEC summit in California. They discussed various issues, including China's indirect support for Russia, human rights concerns, technology, and Taiwan. The future of U.S.-China relations under Trump remains uncertain, especially given his campaign promise to impose 60% tariffs on Chinese imports.

Many American companies are already diversifying their sourcing away from China. For instance, Nike and Warby Parker are exploring alternatives, while Steve Madden plans to reduce imports from China by up to 45% next year.

Security Concerns and Cyber Espionage

Recently, the FBI revealed details of a federal investigation into Chinese efforts to hack U.S. telecommunications networks. The findings indicate a significant cyberespionage campaign targeting Americans in government and politics. Additionally, U.S. intelligence has assessed that China has increased sales of technology to Russia, aiding its military efforts in Ukraine.

Tensions escalated last year when Biden ordered the shooting down of a Chinese spy balloon over U.S. territory. Biden seeks greater Chinese engagement to prevent further escalation with North Korea.

North Korea's Role in Global Tensions

Biden, along with South Korean President Yoon Seok Yul and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, condemned North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's decision to send troops to support Russia against Ukrainian forces in Kursk. Biden described this cooperation as dangerous and destabilising.

White House national security advisor Jake Sullivan noted that managing competition with Beijing will be a significant foreign policy challenge for Trump's administration. Biden has prioritised his relationship with Xi due to its global importance, having built it over years of interactions when both were vice-presidents.

The evolving dynamics between the U.S., China, and other global players continue to shape international relations amid ongoing challenges and uncertainties.