As Trump Prepares to Take Office, Biden and Xi Hold Pivotal Meeting on U.S.-China Relations

Washington, D.C. — President Joe Biden is scheduled to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday during a diplomatic visit to Lima, Peru. White House officials have announced that this meeting will be the third and final in-person engagement between Biden and Xi as fellow world leaders, marking a pivotal moment for U.S.-China relations. Biden’s relationship with Xi, developed over more than a decade, has been central to the Biden administration’s foreign policy strategy, which has often framed global politics as a contest between democratic and autocratic ideals. 

The meeting arrives as Biden prepares to transition power to President-elect Donald Trump, who is expected to adopt a more confrontational stance toward China, including proposed tariffs and a potentially more aggressive trade policy. Trump’s influence looms over a meeting, as Biden seeks to navigate sensitive topics that may face disruption when Trump assumes office on January 20. 

“This is a tough, complicated relationship between the U.S. and China,” a senior administration official said, requesting anonymity to discuss the private nature of discussions. “Whatever next administration decides, you’re going to have to manage that tough, complicated relationship.” 

Agenda and Key Issues 

In what could be one of the most consequential meetings between two leaders, Biden is set to address a range of critical issues with Xi. According to White House sources, Biden will focus on maintaining open channels around potential military conflicts and sustaining cooperative efforts in areas such as narcotics control, climate change, and artificial intelligence. Notably, Biden is also expected to convey concerns about China’s support of Russia in its ongoing conflict with Ukraine, as well as Beijing’s increasing military presence in the South China Sea. Additionally, Biden intends to raise issues surrounding Chinese cyber activities, following recent reports of attempted intrusions on American-based cybersecurity networks. 

A Relationship Shaped Over Time 

two leaders’ relationship dates back to their respective vice presidencies, where they first engaged diplomatically on behalf of their countries. Despite vastly different political systems, Biden and Xi have developed an understanding that, while marked by tensions, has been crucial in stabilizing relations amid escalating geopolitical pressures. It’s first presidential meeting occurred in Bali in 2022, where Biden sought to establish a clearer line of communication following the Democratic Party’s unexpectedly positive performance in the U.S. midterm elections. This latest meeting, however, finds Biden in a less empowered position, following the Republican Party’s recent election successes and an impending transfer of power. 

Biden’s diplomatic approach toward China has often been shaped by his belief in direct communication and personal diplomacy, which administration officials argue has been critical in managing the intricate U.S.-China relationship. “His management has been important to any progress we have made,” a senior administration official remarked. “He and Xi have known each or for over a decade. Se engagements are not easy, but the president has always approached me with candor and forthrightness.” 

Looking Ahead: Impact of Transition 

With the shift in U.S. leadership, the future of Biden’s diplomatic efforts with Xi remains uncertain. Trump’s administration is likely to redefine the tone of U.S.-China relations, with a greater emphasis on economic competition and national security concerns. This anticipated change could present new challenges for the delicate balance Biden has worked to achieve, potentially setting a new trajectory for one of the most influential bilateral relationships in global politics. 

The final Biden-Xi meeting in Lima is expected to be closely watched, not only for any progress achieved but for signs of how se longstanding issues may evolve under new U.S. leadership.