President Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping recently spoke by phone, marking their first conversation since meeting in-person last November. They discussed various topics including artificial intelligence, counternarcotics, and climate issues. The call was described as “candid and constructive,” covering a range of bilateral, regional, and global issues. Both leaders welcomed ongoing efforts to maintain open channels of communication and committed to responsibly managing their relationship through high-level diplomacy and consultations.
During the call, Biden was expected to stress the importance of peace and stability in Taiwan, particularly before the upcoming inauguration of Lai Ching-te, the island’s recently elected president. The U.S. reiterated its commitment to the “One China” policy during the discussion. The leaders also addressed China’s support for Russia in the war against Ukraine and recent actions in the South China Sea. Biden highlighted the need for continued efforts to combat illegal narcotics trafficking and restrict the flow of precursor chemicals used to produce synthetic drugs.
The conversation between Biden and Xi is part of an ongoing effort to maintain regular dialogue and prevent unintended conflicts. The leaders made progress during their previous meeting on resuming military-to-military communications and combating the spread of fentanyl. The call underscores the importance of bolstering communication lines between the two countries. The U.S. has warned that it would defend the Philippines under a 1951 treaty in the event of an armed attack, citing recent incidents involving Filipino vessels in the South China Sea.
In light of the call, senior U.S. officials are preparing to travel to China. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen is scheduled to depart for a six-day trip to Guangzhou and Beijing, while Secretary of State Antony Blinken also plans to visit China, though the timing of his trip is uncertain. These visits reflect the Biden administration’s commitment to engagement with China and continued dialogue between the two countries on various issues. The call between Biden and Xi demonstrates a willingness to address challenges and opportunities in the U.S.-China relationship through diplomacy and communication.
