Delfines Hotel & Convention Center
4:06 P.M. PET
PRESIDENT XI: (As interpreted.) Can you put on your earpiece? We have simultaneous interpreting.
PRESIDENT BIDEN: I’ve learned to speak Chinese. (Laughter.) Wish I did.
PRESIDENT XI: It’s a great pleasure to see you again, President Biden. Over the past four years, the relationship between China and the United States has experienced a series of highs and lows. Nevertheless, under our joint stewardship, both sides have actively engaged in meaningful dialogue and cooperation, keeping the overall relationship stable despite challenges.
These developments reconfirm the experiences gained over the past 45 years of diplomatic ties between China and the U.S. When both nations approach one another as partners and friends, focusing on common ground while acknowledging our differences, we can facilitate substantial progress in our relationship.
However, if we choose to see each other as rivals or adversaries, engaging in fierce competition and attempting to undermine one another, such actions will destabilize our relationship, potentially resulting in setbacks.
The contemporary world is rife with turbulence and conflict. Long-standing issues are increasingly complicated by emerging challenges. Humanity is grappling with unprecedented difficulties. Major power competition should not dictate the ethos of our time. Instead, only through solidarity and cooperation can we hope to surmount the challenges confronting us.
In this era marked by a flourishing technological revolution, neither decoupling nor disruption of supply chains can provide viable answers. Instead, only through mutually beneficial cooperation can we aspire to collective growth. The concept of “small yard, high fences” is not what major powers should aim for. Rather, it is openness and sharing that will bolster the well-being of humanity.
As two leading nations, both China and the United States should prioritize the interests of the global community, injecting greater certainty and positivity into a world facing turmoil.
A stable China-U.S. relationship stands as a vital element, not solely for the well-being of the Chinese and American peoples, but for the future and shared destiny of all humanity.
In conclusion, the two countries must consider the welfare of their citizens alongside the common interests of the international community. This involves making wise decisions, continually exploring the best ways for these two major countries to coexist peacefully, and working towards a long-term vision of harmonious coexistence on our shared planet.
The United States has recently completed its electoral process, but China’s aspirations for a stable, healthy, and sustainable relationship with the U.S. have not changed.
Our commitment to principles like mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and cooperative engagement in handling China-U.S. relations remains steadfast.
We are resolute in upholding China’s sovereignty, security, and developmental interests.
Furthermore, our dedication to nurturing the traditional friendship between the Chinese and American people remains unchanged.
China is prepared to collaborate with the newly established U.S. administration to ensure open lines of communication, broaden cooperation, and effectively address areas of disagreement, all aimed at facilitating a smooth transition in the China-U.S. relationship for the mutual benefit of both nations’ populations.
I eagerly anticipate a thorough exchange of perspectives with you on our bilateral relations as well as other pertinent issues.
Thank you.
PRESIDENT BIDEN: Thank you kindly, Mr. President. It’s a pleasure to see you and all of you once again. A year ago, we convened at the Woodside Summit in San Francisco, and I am proud of the strides we have made together since then.
On military communication, I am pleased to report that our leaders are now engaged in regular dialogues at multiple levels.
Additionally, we have convened our nations’ experts to discuss the risks and safety associated with artificial intelligence.
Regarding counternarcotics efforts, our cooperation has resumed, and I would like to highlight some positive news: In my country, overdose deaths are on the decline for the first time in five years.
We have much to deliberate on, but let me close by reflecting on our extensive history of dialogue. For over a decade, you and I have invested many hours in discussion, whether here, in China, or at various global locations.
We have shared a range of experiences, from the Tibetan Plateau to various summits across the globe, both during my time as vice president and now as president.
While we haven’t always seen eye to eye, our discussions have consistently been candid and straightforward, a vital aspect of our interactions.
Such open conversations are instrumental in averting miscalculations, ensuring that the rivalry between our nations does not escalate into conflict—competition must remain devoid of conflict.
It’s paramount that we fulfill our responsibilities to our citizens and, as you mentioned, to people across the globe. Our states hold the most significant bilateral relationship, and the manner in which we interact will undoubtedly influence the wider world.
Ultimately, our two nations cannot let competition descend into conflict. I firmly believe that we have demonstrated, over the past four years, that a constructive relationship is achievable.
Mr. President, I am eager to commence our meeting and delve into the remaining issues we must address.
Thank you.
4:14 P.M. PET
What are the key factors influencing China-U.S. relations as discussed by Dr. Emily Chen in her interview?
**Interview with Dr. Emily Chen, International Relations Expert at the Delfines Hotel & Convention Center**
**Editor:** Good evening, Dr. Chen. Thank you for joining us today. We just heard President Xi’s remarks regarding the state of China-U.S. relations. What were your key takeaways?
**Dr. Chen:** Thank you for having me. President Xi emphasized the importance of viewing each nation as partners rather than adversaries. He highlighted that mutual cooperation is essential, especially given the current global challenges we face, from economic instability to technological upheavals.
**Editor:** He discussed the concept of “small yard, high fences,” which refers to the insular approach some nations choose. What implications do you think this has for global trade and cooperation?
**Dr. Chen:** That concept implies a retreat into protectionist policies, which can stifle international collaboration. In an interconnected world, those policies could lead to fragmented supply chains and economic slowdowns. President Xi’s push for openness and shared growth is crucial for fostering a stable global market.
**Editor:** President Biden followed up with remarks about the progress made since their last summit. How significant are summits like this in influencing diplomatic relations?
**Dr. Chen:** Very significant. Summits create a platform for direct dialogue and allow leaders to address misunderstandings personally. They also serve to signal to their respective countries and the world that diplomacy is prioritized over conflict. It’s essential for maintaining channels of communication, especially in tense times.
**Editor:** Xi also mentioned the need to prioritize the interests of the global community. How can the U.S. and China work together to achieve this?
**Dr. Chen:** Both nations can cooperate on numerous global challenges like climate change, public health, and technological regulation. Joint initiatives in these areas can build trust and showcase the benefits of collaboration, thereby countering the narrative of inevitable rivalry.
**Editor:** In closing, what do you think are the most significant hurdles to achieving a stable China-U.S. relationship?
**Dr. Chen:** One major hurdle is the persistent issue of sovereignty and security concerns, which often lead to military tensions. Additionally, domestic political pressures in both countries can influence foreign policy. However, if both sides remain committed to dialogue and mutual respect, those hurdles can be navigated.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Chen, for your insights. It’s crucial to consider these perspectives as we move forward in this ever-evolving geopolitical landscape.
**Dr. Chen:** Thank you for having me. It’s always a pleasure to share thoughts on such important matters.