Beyond the Dome: U.S. prepares for Xi Jinping’s visit

By: Sydney Umstead, News Editor

On Nov. 15, President of China Xi Jinping landed in San Francisco, California for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit. 

Following disputes between the United States and China over the mysterious spy balloon and other incidents, the Biden administration hoped to find a way to ease the rising tensions during this meeting. 

The New York Times reported on Nov. 14 that there was an inquiry from China’s diplomats in regards to what Xi would be looking at upon arrival to ensure that “the scenery does not include protesters.” As the two presidents interact, the NYT reported that every bit of the meeting would be a “highly choreographed diplomatic dance.” 

As of the writing of this article, it was stated that the Biden administration is looking towards one “concrete agreement” relating to once again engaging in “military-to-military communications.” This would mean rebuilding a relationship with Beijing’s military following a cease in communication after former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan. 

There has also been a discussion about the use of AI in warfare. The Times covered this situation, reporting, “Both sides have been discussing whether they could find a way to a future commitment to keep artificial intelligence software out of their nuclear command and control systems.” 

The topic of nuclear command is not one that China typically engages in. The reporters mentioned how “even the first wedge into the issue could prove significant.” However, both governments may officially address the outcome of the talk differently. 

The article addressed how officials have acknowledged that “there is little to no prospect of changed behavior.” Furthermore, the reporters disclosed, “There was a time when summits with Chinese leaders resulted in agreements on containing North Korea and keeping Iran from getting a nuclear weapon.” This was followed by the statement, “Those days are over.” 

In an article following the meeting, The New York Times stated that Xi’s list began with a “revival of American financial investments.” That would include technological advances in Beijing. The Times wrote, “For the first time in years, a Chinese leader desperately needed a few things from the United States.”