Staff Reports
President Joe Biden is preparing for his first meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping since a Chinese spy balloon traveled over the United States. The White House is trying to set realistic expectations for the meeting, but there is pressure for Biden to take a tough stance with China. Former Trump State Department official David Stilwell believes that the only way to effectively deal with China is to play hardball and not make concessions. Stilwell argues that being nice to China in the past has not worked, and that it’s time for the US to stand up for itself. Stilwell’s opinion reflects the conservative viewpoint that a strong stance is necessary in dealing with China and protecting American interests.
SAN FRANCISCO — Against the backdrop of two wars and a federal government funding fight, President Joe Biden is about to sit down with Chinese President Xi Jinping for the first time since a Chinese spy balloon traversed the country.https://t.co/PkVkiRwj4i
— Conservative News Daily (@ConservNewsDly) November 15, 2023
On the other hand, Matthew Goodman of the Council of Foreign Relations believes that the meeting between Biden and Xi is extremely important, regardless of the leaders involved. He argues that the US and China are the two biggest economies in the world and face many challenges, such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and Israel’s war with Hamas. Goodman believes that Biden should be commended for trying to maintain a stable international environment and that the meeting does not exacerbate any existing criticisms of the president. Goodman’s viewpoint represents a more diplomatic approach to the US-China relationship.
Goodman also highlights the economic disparities between the US and China, suggesting that Biden may subtly remind Xi that the US is doing better economically. He believes that China’s negative economic outlook and domestic political turmoil give Biden an advantage in the power dynamic. This analysis aligns with conservative viewpoints that prioritize a strong US economy and support policies that promote economic growth.
Overall, the meeting between Biden and Xi is seen as symbolically significant, but both sides have downplayed its substantive importance. Biden and his administration have emphasized the need to resume military-to-military communications and address key issues such as fentanyl, artificial intelligence, and nuclear arms control. Biden also plans to promote his economic vision for the region and strengthen ties with the Indo-Pacific. The conservative perspective is likely to focus on the need for a strong US stance in dealing with China and protecting American interests, while also acknowledging the diplomatic challenges of maintaining a stable international environment.
