UNITED STATES/CHINA: Chinese President Xi Jinping was called a “dictator” by US President Joe Biden on Wednesday, prompting China to respond that the remark was ludicrous and provocative. The exchange came while both sides were attempting to defuse tensions.
US President made a personal remark about Xi when diplomat Antony Blinken stated the “chapter” should be ended, claiming Xi was embarrassed by a suspected Chinese spy balloon that was blown off course over American territory.
American diplomat Antony Blinken visited Beijing to address strained bilateral ties, which China claims are at their lowest since their formation.
A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said Biden’s remarks were “extremely absurd” and “irresponsible.”
Biden’s remarks about Xi Jinping, the most powerful person in China since Mao Zedong, were made at a California fundraiser.
Xi Jinping got upset when the US President shot down a balloon carrying two box cars full of spy equipment since he had no idea it was there, according to Biden.
He added that this is a major disgrace for dictators. He further stated that when they had no idea what had happened. He went on to say that wasn’t supposed to end up where it did. Of course, it was blown up, he said.
China faces economic difficulties, and the situation is a major disgrace for both nations. US President’s remarks are expected to be unreceived in Beijing, potentially impacting efforts to restore their relationship.
During a rare visit by the secretary of state to China, Blinken and Xi pledged to calm the Washington-Beijing rivalry but made no progress. They agreed to maintain diplomatic ties by inviting more American officials to visit. On Tuesday, Biden mentioned that climate change representative John Kerry might visit China soon.
Biden believes Blinken’s visit led to progress in relations between the two nations. He claims Xi expressed concern over the Quad strategic security group, consisting of Japan, Australia, India, and the US.
US President assured Xi that America was not attempting to encircle China with the Quad.
Biden advised against phone calls as it would put him in a difficult situation. US President is scheduled to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi later this week, where they are expected to discuss China.
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