In a significant meeting between US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping in San Francisco, several milestones were achieved, despite a few roadblocks. The leaders agreed that turning their backs on each other was “not an option”. Here are 10 key takeaways from the meeting:
1. The two leaders met at the Filoli Estate, famously known as the setting of the 1980s soap opera “Dynasty”. They were seen casually strolling through the estate’s gardens, chatting and smiling.
2. The outcomes of the summit were favorable, with the US and China agreeing to restore high-level military communications. Biden emphasized the importance of direct and open communication to avoid accidents and misunderstandings.
3. Both sides also reached an agreement to cooperate in tackling the supply of fentanyl, a leading cause of drug overdoses in the US. China will take action against chemical companies producing fentanyl precursors.
4. The talks also addressed the topic of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The leaders recognized the need to address the risks associated with advanced AI systems and improve AI safety through government talks between the US and China.
5. Biden emphasized the importance of continued high-level diplomacy with China, ensuring open lines of communication between him and President Xi. They agreed that direct phone calls would be heard immediately.
6. At the end of the meeting, memorable quotes were exchanged. Xi stated that “planet earth is big enough for the two countries to succeed”, while Biden highlighted the world’s expectation for responsible management of competition between the US and China, to prevent conflict or a new Cold War.
7. Light moments occurred during the meeting as well. Biden reminded Xi of his wife’s birthday, revealing that it was also his own birthday. Xi expressed gratitude for the timely reminder, admitting that he had been preoccupied with work and had forgotten the date.
8. However, the meeting was not without its challenges. Biden raised concerns about alleged human rights abuses in Xinjiang, Tibet, and Hong Kong, providing names of individuals believed to be held. No agreement was reached on this issue.
9. The issue of Taiwan was also discussed, with Biden urging the US to stop arming the island. Xi firmly stated that reunification was “unstoppable” and emphasized Beijing’s claim of sovereignty over Taiwan.
10. Following the meeting, Biden made a remark that may not sit well with China. Referring to Xi, he described him as a “dictator” due to China’s communist form of government.
Overall, the meeting between Biden and Xi showcased both cooperation and challenges, highlighting the complexities of the relationship between the two superpowers.
