The Blubber

In a recent address to business leaders in San Francisco, following his meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden, Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed China's desire for amicable relations with the United States. He emphasized that China has no aspirations to challenge or dethrone the U.S. and assured that China will not engage in expansionist or hegemonic practices, nor will it seek to dominate others. Xi's statement, which comes shortly after his meeting with Biden, highlights China's commitment to avoiding conflict, be it a cold or a hot war.

This meeting between the two leaders, their first in a year, resulted in several agreements aimed at addressing the fentanyl crisis, reinstating high-level military communications, and initiating discussions on artificial intelligence. Biden praised these talks as highly constructive and productive.

Xi's speech also aimed to alleviate U.S. concerns regarding China's potential threat to American global dominance, both economically and militarily. He addressed the escalating tensions over Taiwan and the South China Sea, underscoring the importance of avoiding a direct conflict stemming from trade tariffs and export controls.

Recounting his visit to Iowa nearly 40 years ago, Xi highlighted the similarities between the American and Chinese people. He also announced the resumption of the “panda diplomacy” program, signaling a renewal of stable Sino-American relations. This program, symbolic of friendly ties, had seemed to be concluding earlier this year.