Biden Calls Xi “Dictator” Hours After First Meeting in a Year
Image Source: Philstar.com
US President Joe Biden referred to his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, as a “dictator” during a press conference just hours after their first meeting in a year. The summit, held at the Filoli estate near San Francisco, aimed at stabilizing the strained US-China relationship.
Despite Biden emphasizing the productive nature of the discussions and the progress made, his off-the-cuff remark marked a departure from the carefully choreographed diplomatic efforts throughout the day. The leaders celebrated agreements on issues such as the restoration of high-level military communications, combating fentanyl, and initiating a dialogue on artificial intelligence.
The restoration of direct military-to-military contacts was highlighted by Biden as crucial in preventing miscalculations and fostering clear communication between the two nations. However, his characterization of Xi as a “dictator” stirred controversy, echoing earlier remarks that drew criticism from China.
While both sides described the talks as a step toward normalizing relations, China reiterated its stance on sensitive issues, particularly the Taiwan question. The Chinese Foreign Ministry warned against attempts to remodel one side by the other and asserted that reunification with Taiwan is inevitable.
The summit covered a wide range of topics, including discussions on Taiwan, the One China policy, the conflict between Israel and Hamas, and cooperation on climate change. The commitment to combat fentanyl production in China was highlighted as a significant achievement, with Biden expressing gratitude for President Xi’s commitment to addressing the issue.
As the leaders exchanged memories and engaged in a lighthearted moment about birthdays, the summit showcased both diplomatic strides and unexpected tensions. Biden’s use of the term “dictator” underscored the complex dynamics between the two nations, emphasizing the challenges of managing a competitive yet responsible relationship.
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- Saman Sheikh, with a passion for unravelling the complex web of global events and their implications, brings a unique blend of expertise and dedication to the world of journalism. She is dedicated to keeping readers informed about the ever-evolving landscape of global politics, economics, and diplomacy, making sense of the world's most pressing issues. Saman is known for her expertise in deciphering global rivalries and shedding light on diplomatic intricacies.
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