ANALYSIS: Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to meet President Biden this week during an international economic summit in San Francisco. The Chinese state media has reported that President Xi will seek concessions from the United States on ideology, trade, and exports. Chinese officials have emphasized the importance of three principles in bilateral relations with the U.S., starting with “mutual respect.” China demands that the U.S. does not attempt to undermine its communist system. The meeting between President Biden and President Xi is scheduled for Wednesday during the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation. President Xi also plans to deliver a speech in San Francisco on his proposals for deeper Asia-Pacific cooperation and global growth. However, concerns have been raised about China’s conduct in recent foreign appearances, including the failure to show up for a scheduled speech in South Africa and declining participation in a meeting of G20 nations in India. President Xi’s “three principles” include a demand for peaceful coexistence and “win-win” cooperation for improved ties with the U.S. However, U.S. defense and military officials have expressed doubts about this agenda, citing China’s aggressive military activities in the region. Chinese forces have clashed with Philippines vessels in the South China Sea, and China has increased military operations around Taiwan. The primary goal for President Xi in San Francisco is to emphasize the need for the U.S. to recognize and appreciate the differences between the two countries’ systems of government. Chinese officials have criticized the American “Cold War mentality” and view it as a plan to encircle and contain China’s rise as a global power. China’s Communist leadership aims to protect its system of government and spread its socialist system known as “Marxism-Leninism with Chinese characteristics for a new era.” The White House plans to renew direct military exchanges with China, which were cut off in August 2022. However, some analysts believe that placating President Xi will not change China’s behavior in challenging American interests worldwide. They suggest taking a more assertive approach, including sanctions on Chinese banks involved in illicit purchases and banning Chinese social media apps like TikTok. Blunt talks and the use of four “sticks” could potentially prompt President Xi to reconsider his support for Russia and Iran.
