Part 3/13:

Biden and Xi: Easing Tensions or Just a Diplomatic Gesture?

The bilateral meeting was viewed as a crucial moment to gauge the trajectory of U.S.-China relations. Officials portrayed it as an effort to establish "guardrails"—a metaphor for controlling tensions and preventing escalation. Both leaders appeared to succeed in at least lowering rhetoric, with China signaling its concern about nuclear proliferation and both reaffirming commitments to climate cooperation and economic dialogue.

However, key issues such as Taiwan and Ukraine remained unresolved, with each side seemingly talking past each other. The reaffirmation of the One China policy by Biden was seen as a strategic gesture, intended to reassure Beijing and avoid further escalation post-Pelosi's visit to Taiwan.