China Prez Xi Jinping hosts US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan to improve ties

Tense US-China ties

The backdrop to this meeting includes a complex history of discord between the two nations. Relations between China and the US began to sour significantly with the onset of a trade war in 2018. This conflict has evolved to encompass a broad array of issues, including China’s assertive claims over the South China Sea, disputes over industrial policies related to sectors like automobile and solar panel manufacturing, and broader geopolitical rivalries.

Sullivan’s trip aims to prevent further escalation of these tensions. Speaking to reporters before departing Beijing, he emphasized the importance of managing the competition between the two countries through diplomacy. “We believe that competition with China does not have to lead to conflict or confrontation. The key is responsible management through diplomacy,” Sullivan stated.

Commitment to stable relations

Both sides have expressed a commitment to managing their relationship despite the current strains. Xi Jinping reiterated China’s ongoing dedication to fostering a stable, healthy, and sustainable relationship with the US. “Although the situations of the two countries and China-US relations have changed greatly, China’s goal of being committed to the stable, healthy and sustainable development of China-US relations has not changed,” Xi said.

Sullivan also underscored President Biden’s commitment to ensuring that competition does not escalate into conflict, aiming to work together where interests align. A phone call between Xi and Biden is being planned for the coming weeks to further address bilateral issues.

Taiwan situation

The meeting between Xi and Sullivan covered several critical topics. One major area of discussion was the situation in Taiwan. Zhang Youxia, Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission, raised concerns about US military support for Taiwan. He criticized Washington for what he described as “military collusion” with Taiwan and accused it of spreading false narratives about the island. Zhang has previously voiced Beijing’s determination to assert control over Taiwan, emphasizing that China would respond forcefully to any perceived threats to its sovereignty.

In response, Sullivan emphasized the US’s longstanding commitment to maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. This aligns with the US’s obligation under domestic law to provide Taiwan with defensive support to deter aggression.

South China Sea and regional disputes

The discussions also touched on recent clashes between Chinese and Filipino coast guards in the South China Sea. Beijing warned the US against supporting or indulging the Philippines in what it views as infringements on its rights and interests in the disputed region. The US military has contested China’s expansive claims in the South China Sea and has shown willingness to escort Philippine ships amid increasing hostilities. Sullivan reaffirmed the US’s support for the Philippines and its concerns over recent aggressive actions by the Chinese Coast Guard.

Broader strategic concerns

In addition to these immediate issues, the conversation addressed broader strategic concerns. The Biden administration has shifted US policy from engagement to competition with China, focusing on preventing this competition from escalating into outright conflict. Areas of potential collaboration include climate change, artificial intelligence, and efforts to combat illicit drugs.

John Podesta, Senior Adviser to President Biden for International Climate Policy, is scheduled to travel to China to discuss climate-related issues. Sullivan and Chinese officials also discussed ongoing efforts to reduce the flow of synthetic drugs and address undocumented migration. Both sides have agreed to continue dialogues on artificial intelligence and other strategic areas of mutual interest.