Xi-Biden talks clear ‘low bar for success’ but bigger hurdles loom for US-China relations

In a recent summit in California, President Xi Jinping of China and President Joe Biden of the United States managed to meet the low expectations set for their discussion. Despite the odds, they claimed progress on several key issues. For the first time in a year, they sat down face-to-face and agreed to tackle the fentanyl crisis, restore military communication, and work together on artificial intelligence risks. They also plan to renew a science and technology agreement, increase flights, and promote cultural exchanges.

During the meeting, Xi highlighted China's concerns about Taiwan, especially with its upcoming presidential election. He urged the U. S. to honor its commitment to not support Taiwan's independence. Xi also reassured Biden that China isn't trying to surpass the U. S. as a global leader. For Biden, the summit was an opportunity to demonstrate his ability to manage a complex international relationship while upholding American interests, as he prepares for the upcoming U. S. presidential election.

However, the summit also exposed deep-seated disagreements on issues like trade tariffs, technology exports, Taiwan, the South China Sea, and human rights. Experts believe that while the meeting was a step towards stabilizing relations, the underlying tensions and mistrust between the two nations remain. They caution that unforeseen events, like the recent spy balloon incident, could further strain the relationship. Despite this, the White House and Beijing are both preparing for continued competition, with the U. S. focusing on maintaining technological leadership and China asserting its right to develop without interference.