As the two most dominant nations on the globe, the dynamic between the United States and China stands as the most consequential of all international relations.
Any alterations in conduct and interactions from either party not only influence security, economic activities, and trade in Washington and Beijing, but also have repercussions for the entire world.
President Xi Jinping publicly highlighted this point during his greeting – and likely farewell – to Joe Biden when the two leaders convened on the fringes of an economic conference in Peru, presumably their final in-person meeting before the US president transfers leadership to Donald Trump.
Joe Biden and Xi Jinping shaking hands in Peru earlier this week. Pic: Reuters
“As two leading nations, China and the United States ought to consider the interests of the global community and infuse more certainty and positivity into an increasingly tumultuous world,” Mr. Xi remarked, conveyed through a translator.
“I firmly believe that as the most significant bilateral partnership in the world, a stable China-US relationship is essential not only for the well-being of the peoples of China and America but also for the future and fate of humanity as a whole.”
Mr. Biden, whose rapport with his counterpart transcends his four years as president to include his tenure as vice president under Barack Obama, also emphasized the necessity of communication.
“We haven’t always seen eye to eye, but our discussions have consistently been straightforward and honest,” he expressed, seated at an extended table, flanked by aides, with Mr. Xi seated across from him.
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“I believe this is vital. These discussions prevent errors in judgment and guarantee that the rivalry between our two nations does not escalate into conflict. Embrace competition, not conflict.”
Although evidently directed at him, it is questionable whether Mr. Trump will regard this counsel seriously.
He has repeatedly criticized the Biden administration for its perceived leniency towards Beijing and has pledged to adopt a tougher stance – even asserting he would implement 60% tariffs on imports from China.
The president-elect’s appointments for key positions in the White House, such as his inclination for China hawks like Senator Marco Rubio as Secretary of State and Representative Mike Walz as National Security Advisor, further indicate a firming of the US stance regarding Beijing – which is on a course to surpass Washington as the foremost global superpower.
This pivotal shift in global hegemony – a scenario the UK once grappled with as the sun set on the British Empire – is poised to unfold regardless of who resides in the White House.
However, a more antagonistic and confrontational leader in the White House signifies an increasingly treacherous time for all parties involved.
This may explain why the current leaders in Beijing and Washington are so eager to emphasize that while their sentiments towards one another may fluctuate, the necessity of maintaining dialogue is paramount.
