WASHINGTON: The upcoming meeting between US President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping is poised to address critical issues, with the resumption of US-China military communications taking center stage as a priority, according to statements from the White House.
National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan emphasized the need to reestablish communication links that China had suspended last year, characterizing it as a crucial aspect of preventing mistakes, miscalculations, or miscommunications between the two nations.
The suspension of these communication channels was a response to then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan.
President Biden views the summit as an opportunity to advance discussions on restoring these vital lines of communication. The dialogue is not only expected to involve high-ranking defense officials but aims to extend to the tactical and operational levels.
Communications Between US and China
Sullivan expressed President Biden’s commitment to reinstating these communication links, fostering better understanding, and reducing the risk of misunderstandings.
In addition to military communications, the Biden-Xi summit is anticipated to address the complex issue of Iran. Sullivan highlighted that the threat posed by Iran’s nuclear program and its impact on regional stability would be on the agenda.
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The United States is seeking to tighten sanctions against Iran, a significant oil source for China, as part of its broader strategy. The meeting will also discuss the threat Iran poses to US forces in the region.
The summit, scheduled during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in San Francisco, marks the first face-to-face meeting between the two leaders in a year and Xi Jinping’s first visit to the US in six years.
