Biden and Xi Jinping’s First Call Since November Talks: Commitment to Sustaining Communication Channels

Discussion on South China Sea, Taiwan, and North Korean Nuclear Threats in Biden-Xi Jinping conversation
Biden raises concerns over TikTok with Xi Jinping
Treasury Secretary Yellen’s visit to China scheduled for the 3rd to 9th

Amid escalating tensions between the United States and China, President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping engaged in their first dialogue since their summit last November.

According to CNN on March 2nd (local time), the White House announced, “The two leaders engaged in a candid and constructive conversation on various issues for an hour and 45 minutes.” Additionally, they stated, “Both leaders expressed appreciation for ongoing efforts to maintain open channels of communication and responsibly manage the relationship through high-level diplomatic and working-level consultations in the coming weeks and months.” Their last telephone conversation occurred in July 2022.

It is reported that Presidents Biden and Xi discussed recent escalations in the South China Sea, human rights abuses in China, the Taiwan issue, the conflict in Ukraine, and threats from North Korea’s nuclear program. They also exchanged views on drug trafficking, artificial intelligence (AI), and strategies for addressing climate change.

The White House disclosed, “President Biden conveyed his commitment to taking necessary measures to prevent the misuse of advanced U.S. technology to undermine national security while avoiding excessive restrictions on trade and investment.”

Furthermore, President Biden reportedly addressed issues related to TikTok during the conversation. White House National Security Communications Director John Kirby clarified, “President Biden emphasized a focus on the divestiture of TikTok, rather than advocating for a ban,” adding, “This pertains to national security and the protection of American data.”

Meanwhile, U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen will visit China from March 3rd to 9th. This visit marks her first to China in nine months since July of last year, and discussions are anticipated to revolve around China’s unfair trade practices.