Biden and Xi Jinping's Final Meeting Before Transition of Power
US President Joe Biden is set to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping this Saturday during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Lima, Peru. This meeting marks the third encounter between the two leaders since Biden took office and is significant as it occurs just weeks before Donald Trump assumes the presidency. With trade tensions high and a complex geopolitical landscape, this meeting is seen as a crucial moment for both leaders to reflect on their relationship and discuss the future of US-China relations.
The APEC summit will host 16 heads of state and representatives from 21 economies, which together account for over 62% of global GDP and nearly 38% of the world's population. Other notable attendees include leaders from Vietnam, South Korea, and Singapore, as well as executives from major companies like Google and TikTok. Amidst this gathering, the Peruvian government, led by President Dina Boluarte, is striving to project a positive image despite facing significant domestic unrest and criticism.
Domestic Challenges Amidst International Diplomacy
As the APEC summit approaches, the Boluarte administration has implemented measures to ensure security and manage potential protests, including declaring holidays and teleworking for public sector employees. This comes in response to ongoing national strikes and unrest due to rising crime and economic challenges. Critics have labeled these measures as attempts to suppress dissent during a pivotal international event.
In a controversial move, Boluarte's government has also proposed legislation that would allow military jurisdiction over police actions, raising concerns among political opponents and civil rights advocates. Protests have erupted in various regions, with demonstrators expressing their grievances against the government and the socio-economic conditions in the country.
The meeting between Biden and Xi is expected to be more of a reflective discussion rather than a platform for new agreements, as both leaders navigate the implications of the upcoming transition in US leadership. The Biden administration has emphasized the importance of maintaining open lines of communication with China, especially as Trump prepares to take a more aggressive stance on issues such as trade and technology.
As global dynamics shift, the outcome of this meeting could set the tone for future US-China relations under the Trump administration, which has already indicated a tougher approach towards Beijing. The implications of these discussions will be closely watched by international observers, particularly in light of Xi's recent engagements with other global leaders and China's expanding influence in the southern hemisphere.
