Recently, the world witnessed a momentous meeting between US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the APEC Summit in Lima, Peru. The meeting marked a watershed moment in the relationship between the two great powers, with Xi Jinping highlighting seven principles that must be upheld in the relationship between China and the United States.
Background of the Meeting
The meeting comes amid rising tensions between the two countries, particularly over trade, technology and security issues. Joe Biden and Xi Jinping have met several times before, but this meeting is considered particularly important because of the increasingly complex and dynamic global situation. The two leaders are trying to find a way to manage the competition between the two countries without it leading to conflict.
Seven Principles of China-US Relations
During the meeting, Xi Jinping emphasized seven principles that must be upheld in the relationship between China and the United States. These principles are expected to serve as a guide in managing the complex and often challenging bilateral relationship.
The Correct Paradigm
Xi Jinping stressed the importance of having a correct paradigm in relations between the two countries. He said that the "Thucydides trap" is not a historical inevitability. The Thucydides trap refers to the ancient Greek historian's assertion that when a rising power threatens to displace an existing power, war is the most likely outcome. Xi stressed that a new Cold War is unacceptable and cannot be won.
Consistency Between Words and Actions
Xi stressed the importance of consistency between words and actions. He said that one cannot build oneself without credibility. China always keeps its word, and if the United States always says one thing and does another, it will only damage its own image and China's trust in the United States.
Equal Treatment
As two major countries, neither China nor the United States should impose their will, pressure or seize each other's legitimate rights to maintain their leadership status. Xi stressed the importance of equal treatment in bilateral relations.
Respecting Red Lines and Core Principles
Xi stressed that differences and contradictions between China and the United States are inevitable, but one side should not damage the other's core interests, let alone seek conflict or confrontation. The "One China" principle and the three communiques between China and the United States are the political foundation of China-US relations. These principles must be respected.
More Dialogue and Cooperation
Xi stressed the importance of more dialogue and cooperation between the two countries. He said the common interests between China and the United States are actually broader than they are diminishing. Cooperation can be carried out in various fields, including economics, trade, agriculture, anti-narcotics, law enforcement and public health.
Managing Differences Wisely
Xi stressed the importance of managing differences wisely. He said the two countries should expand the scope of cooperation and make the cooperation pie bigger to achieve mutually beneficial results. In this way, existing differences can be managed in a constructive manner and not damage bilateral relations.
Building Trust and Avoiding Misunderstandings
Xi stressed the importance of building trust and avoiding misunderstandings between the two countries. He said open and honest communication is key to preventing misunderstandings and ensuring that competition between the two countries does not lead to conflict.
Impact of the Meeting
This meeting is expected to have a positive impact on relations between China and the United States. By affirming these seven principles, Xi Jinping demonstrated China's commitment to maintaining stable and constructive relations with the United States. Joe Biden also welcomed this effort and emphasized the importance of maintaining open channels of communication between the two countries.
Challenges Ahead
While this meeting brings new hope, there are still many challenges ahead. Both countries must work hard to overcome their differences and find ways to work together on global challenges, such as climate change, cybersecurity, and international trade. In addition, both countries must also manage sensitive issues, such as Taiwan and the South China Sea, wisely and carefully.
Conclusion
The meeting between Joe Biden and Xi Jinping at the APEC Summit marked a watershed moment in China-US relations. By affirming the seven principles of bilateral relations, Xi Jinping demonstrated China's commitment to maintaining stable and constructive relations with the United States. Although there are still many challenges ahead, this meeting brings new hope for the two countries to work together to address global challenges and safeguard world peace and stability.
