Biden / Xi: constructive?

(Boursier.com) — The three-hour meeting between Joe Biden and Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the G20 in Bali did not solve any major problems, but reflected the mutual desire to improve relations. Goodwill gestures include resuming talks on climate change, economic stability and debt relief, and health and food security. Secretary of State Antony Blinken will pay a follow-up visit to China. Biden said the United States would compete vigorously but not seek conflict. Biden warned Xi about North Korea, although allied defensive activities in the region were not directed against China. Biden raised concerns about Xinjiang, Tibet and Hong Kong, and human rights more broadly. Biden has raised objections to China’s coercive and increasingly aggressive actions toward Taiwan. Xi said for his part that Taiwan was the “first red line not to cross”. The US president also voiced continued concerns about Chinese economic practices. Regarding Russia, Biden highlighted the irresponsible threats of Russia’s use of nuclear weapons. Both Biden and Xi have opposed nuclear use or threat in Ukraine.