In a high-stakes meet-up Joe Biden and Xi Jinping will sit down tomorrow at the APEC forum in Lima – their last talk before Trump takes office in Jan-20th
The timing couldnt be more complex with recent cyber-attacks on U.S phone systems (which China denies) and growing tech-trade conflicts; both leaders need to address these issues head-on. A new phone-hacking case linked to Beijing has made things extra tough – especially since it targeted govt and campaign staff
The meeting happens while Xi Jinping does a power-move tour across South America: hes opening a huge port in Peru signing trade deals and heading to Brazil next week. Meanwhile US officials worry about China getting too friendly with their southern neighbors
- Future 60% tariffs on Chinese goods
- New strict rules on AI and chip exports
- Planned Hawaii stop by Taiwanʼs leader
- Chinese support for Russia
Tech-trade problems are getting bigger – Biden put limits on Chinaʼs access to computer chips AI and quantum tech. At the same time Xi Jinping faces pressure from upcoming Trump policies that might hurt Chinaʼs economy even more
The transition to Trumpʼs presidency adds extra pressure: his pick for state secretary Marco Rubio and security adviser Mike Waltz are known to be tough on China. This makes tomorrows meeting crucial for keeping things stable during the change