President Joe Biden’s recent remarks about Chinese leader Xi Jinping and China’s economic difficulties have sparked condemnation from China, creating a new rift between the two countries. The clash of words comes after Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s visit to Beijing, which aimed to stabilize the relationship but did not result in significant breakthroughs. China’s quick response raises questions about whether Biden’s remarks will undo the progress made during Blinken’s visit or if the two sides will move on.
Biden’s characterization of China comes as the campaign for next year’s presidential election is already underway, with Republicans accusing him of being weak on China. Biden was also preparing to welcome Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Washington, where a shared wariness of China would be a central theme.
During a fundraiser in California, Biden referred to a recent incident involving a Chinese spy balloon over U.S. skies. He depicted Xi as out-of-touch and embarrassed by the incident, which ended with the Air Force shooting down the balloon. Biden’s remarks downplayed China’s trade competition and highlighted the country’s economic difficulties.
China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning condemned Biden’s remarks as “extremely absurd and irresponsible.” Mao reiterated China’s version of the balloon incident, stating that it was for meteorological research and had been accidentally blown off course.
The White House signaled that Biden had no intention of walking back his comments. A senior administration official stated that it should come as no surprise that Biden speaks candidly about China and the differences between the two countries. The official also mentioned that progress was made during Blinken’s visit and that the administration expects to build on that progress.
U.S.-China tensions have been mounting for years, exacerbated by trade disputes, global influence rivalry, and issues related to Taiwan. The U.S. is pressing for direct communications between Biden, Xi, and other senior military and civilian leaders to defuse tensions and prevent incidents from escalating.
Analysts point to Republican political pressure as a factor influencing Biden’s remarks, as he seeks to avoid being seen as soft on China. However, critics argue that Biden’s public and private statements about China can strain the relationship between the two countries.
Xi may not want to overreact and further strain the relationship, despite being upset by Biden’s claim that he wasn’t fully informed about the balloon incident. The initial Republican response to Biden’s remarks was approving, with Senator Marco Rubio stating that it was an appropriate description of China’s system of government.
While Xi holds significant power in China, facing no term limits as head of state, military commander, and leader of the ruling Communist Party, Biden has expressed that Xi wants to have a relationship again. The Biden administration believes that progress can be made in the relationship with time.
The ongoing tensions between the U.S. and China highlight the challenges in maintaining a stable relationship between the two global powers.
How do Biden’s remarks about China’s commitment to peaceful development impact the progress made during Blinken’s visit?
Ted China’s commitment to peaceful development and accused Biden of spreading misinformation. He emphasized that China’s economy remains strong and resilient, despite some challenges.
The swift response from China underscores the sensitivity of the relationship between the two countries. It also raises concerns about the impact of Biden’s remarks on the progress made during Blinken’s visit. The visit, which aimed to stabilize the relationship, did not produce significant breakthroughs but was seen as a positive step towards dialogue and understanding.
Biden’s comments about China are also seen in the context of the upcoming presidential election. Republicans have been critical of Biden’s approach to China, accusing him of being weak on the issue. Biden’s remarks may be an attempt to counter those criticisms and present a strong stance towards China.
Furthermore, Biden’s upcoming meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi adds another dimension to the situation. Both leaders share concerns about China’s growing influence, and it is expected to be a central theme during their discussions in Washington.
It remains to be seen how the clash of words between Biden and China will impact the relationship moving forward. The recent remarks have certainly created a new rift, but it is unclear whether this will undo the progress made during Blinken’s visit or if the two sides will be able to move on and continue with their dialogue.
