Biden and Xi Discuss Key Issues in First Call Post-November Summit
In a recent phone conversation, President Joe Biden of the United States and Chinese President Xi Jinping discussed a variety of significant topics, including Taiwan, artificial intelligence, and security concerns. The dialogue is part of an ongoing effort to re-establish regular communication at the highest level between the two nations. Both leaders agreed to bolster cooperation on the issue of fentanyl trafficking, with the promise of high-level engagements in the coming weeks, including planned visits to China by U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
During the call, President Biden underscored the United States' adherence to the "One China" policy while expressing concerns about human rights, China's treatment of minority groups, and the country's defense relationship with Russia. He also conveyed warnings against interference in the upcoming 2024 U.S. elections and ongoing cyberattacks targeting U.S. infrastructure.
The two presidents also touched on global and regional challenges, including the South China Sea, China's economic practices, and efforts to assist Russia during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Despite a mutual commitment to keep open lines of communication to manage competition and avoid unintended conflict, the conversation underscored the persistent tensions between the U.S. and China, especially regarding human rights issues and territorial claims in the South China Sea. The talks set the stage for further dialogue on shared interests such as military communications, climate change, and global economic stability.
