ON THE SIDELINES OF G20
For the world economy to flourish, these two need to talk
This is President Joe Biden's first meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping since taking power in 2021.
Biden warned Xi to rein in North Korea's weapons programmes unless he wants United States to enhance security in the region. The two leaders also exchanged heated words on Taiwan.
North Korea has been expanding its weapon's programmes and threatens regularly to use its nuclear arsenal. Its missiles also frequently land in its neighbour Japan's maritime zone sending chilling signals of its intent if it is harmed.
Biden believes there is currently no threat of a Chinese invasion. Although, a "strategic ambiguity" still exists over what US would do in case China invades. President Biden also reiterated US recognition of "One China" policy
Xi emphasized Taiwan as the very core of China's core interests. He underlined its importance by calling it the "first red line" that must not be crossed in US-China relations.
There was interesting similarity between statments put out by China and US after the meeting. Both described talks as candid and a resolve to work on global issues like climat ehcange, food securit and economic prosperity.