Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday pledged to work with the incoming administration of US President-elect Donald Trump, highlighting the importance of maintaining stability in US-China relations.
His remarks came during a meeting with outgoing US President Joe Biden on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) forum in Lima, Peru. This marked their first meeting in seven months, as both leaders addressed critical global issues, including trade disputes, cybercrimes, tensions over Taiwan, and the ongoing influence of Russia.
Xi acknowledged the historical challenges between the two nations but reiterated China’s consistent aim of fostering a stable, healthy, and sustainable relationship with the US, adding that Beijing is ready to maintain communication, expand cooperation, and manage differences with the Trump administration. Biden noted the frank and candid nature of his discussions with Xi, highlighting the importance of dialogue even in times of disagreement.
The meeting occurred amid heightened tensions, as Trump prepared to take office in two months. His campaign promises, including imposing 60% tariffs on Chinese imports under his “America First” trade agenda, have already caused unease in Beijing.
Key flashpoints in US-China relations
Biden’s administration has attempted to manage multiple flashpoints in the relationship, including allegations of China-linked cyberattacks targeting US government communications, growing pressure on Taiwan, and Beijing’s support for Russia in the Ukraine conflict.
Meanwhile, Taiwan’s leadership has been a source of contention, with reports of President Lai Ching-te planning sensitive stopovers in the US and former economy minister Lin Hsin-i inviting Biden to visit Taiwan, moves likely to provoke Beijing. China continues to view Taiwan as its territory, while the US remains its most significant international backer, supplying arms despite lacking formal diplomatic ties.
Beijing’s economy has faced significant challenges due to US trade policies under Biden, including restrictions on investments in Chinese technology sectors like artificial intelligence and quantum computing, as well as export controls on advanced semiconductors. These measures have compounded domestic pressures, creating economic strains that loom large over bilateral discussions.
As Xi outlined the potential paths forward, he stressed that mutual respect and cooperation could foster progress in the relationship, while antagonism and competition would risk setbacks.
Xi’s visit to the Apec summit also marked a broader diplomatic push to expand China’s influence in Latin America, a region long dominated by US interests. During his trip, Xi signed a refurbished free-trade agreement with Peru, inaugurated the Chancay deep-water port, and announced plans to host the Apec summit in 2026.