US President Joe Biden is eager to engage in discussions with Xi Jinping soon, according to Jake Sullivan, who conveyed this message to the Chinese leader during a rare meeting in Beijing. Sullivan, the first US national security advisor to visit China in several years, concluded three days of talks by meeting with Xi Jinping, as well as Foreign Minister Wang Yi and other senior officials.
During his meeting with Xi in Beijing’s Great Hall of the People, Sullivan shared that President Biden is looking forward to their next conversation in the “coming weeks.” He emphasized Biden’s commitment to managing the US-China relationship responsibly, ensuring that competition doesn’t escalate into conflict, and cooperating where mutual interests align.
Xi responded positively, expressing that despite significant changes, China remains committed to fostering stable and healthy relations with the US. He also urged the US to work with China to find common ground, as reported by Chinese state media.
Sullivan’s visit took place amidst tensions between China and US allies like Japan and the Philippines. In addition to discussing future talks between Biden and Xi, Sullivan and Wang Yi clashed over China’s assertive actions in contested maritime areas.
Sullivan also met with Zhang Youxia, a senior Chinese military official, to discuss sensitive issues like Taiwan and regional stability. They agreed to arrange a call between their respective military commanders soon. Sullivan highlighted the importance of freedom of navigation in the South China Sea and stability in the Taiwan Strait, while Zhang reiterated China’s stance on Taiwan, warning against crossing what he described as China’s “first red line.”
The discussions also touched on broader concerns, including China’s support for Russia’s defense industry and the need to avoid cyber conflicts. Sullivan’s visit, occurring months before the US elections, reflects ongoing efforts to maintain dialogue with China while addressing challenging issues.
