By Aaron Miller-
President Joe Biden is scheduled to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping today in San Francisco, marking the first in-person meeting between the two leaders in a year.
The summit, viewed as a crucial opportunity to ease tensions, comes amid a precarious geopolitical climate shaped by conflicts such as the Israel-Hamas and Russia-Ukraine wars.
Xi’s visit to the United States is his first in six years, highlighting the gravity of the discussions expected between the two global powers. Over the years, strained relations between the US and China have been fueled by issues ranging from trade disputes and human rights concerns to the complex question of Taiwan’s future.
Military dialogues between the nations have been largely suspended, particularly after former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s controversial visit to Taiwan last year, provoking strong reactions from China.
Apart from the longstanding issues, the leaders are anticipated to delve into climate agreements. A joint statement released by the US State Department and China on Tuesday emphasized their commitment to collaborative efforts with other nations to address the climate crisis.
One significant agenda item likely to be discussed is the control of the fentanyl pipeline from China to the US, which has contributed to an opioid overdose epidemic across the country.
The opioid crisis is a shared concern that could pave the way for cooperation between the two nations on a critical global issue.
The meeting is set to commence at 2 pm ET and is expected to last at least four hours, providing ample time for discussions on a range of pressing matters. President Biden is slated to hold a press conference at 7:15 pm ET, offering insights into the outcomes of the bilateral talks.
In a gesture of hospitality, the Bidens will host a welcome reception for leaders attending the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) summit in San Francisco, further underscoring the significance of the diplomatic engagements taking place.