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Biden characterizes Chinese President Xi as a dictator

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Biden characterizes Chinese President Xi as a dictator

On Tuesday, U.S. President Joe Biden referred to Chinese leader Xi Jinping as an authoritarian figure, a statement that elicited a strong reaction from China and has the potential to strain diplomatic relations further, considering the already fragile state of affairs between the two countries.

During a campaign fundraiser in California, President Biden made the remark shortly after Secretary of State Antony Blinken concluded his inaugural visit to Beijing. Biden mentioned that Xi Jinping expressed strong displeasure when he discovered the presence of spy equipment, which Biden metaphorically referred to as “two box cars,” being uncovered. The comment was made to approximately 125 attendees at the fundraiser in Kentfield, California.

President Biden further commented, stating, “For dictators, it was a significant embarrassment when they were caught off guard and unaware of what had occurred. The intended destination of that equipment was not where it was discovered.” This situation highlights the delicate balancing act that Biden must navigate in handling relations with a assertive global rival, all while catering to the preferences of the voters. Secretary Blinken’s recent trip aimed to repair the strained relations between these two major world powers, which had deteriorated significantly after the U.S. alleged that it had downed a surveillance balloon off the coast of South Carolina in February—a claim that China denies.

China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Mao Ning, criticized Biden’s remarks about President Xi, labeling them as “ridiculously absurd and irresponsible.” During a regular news conference in Beijing, Mao Ning emphasized that Biden’s comments showed a significant disregard for basic facts, a breach of diplomatic protocol, and a violation of China’s political dignity. Mao Ning further characterized the remarks as an open political provocation and expressed China’s strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition in response to Biden’s statement.

The Beijing trip, initially planned for February, was postponed by Blinken following the stray balloon incident. His recent visit over the weekend marked the resumption of high-level government meetings between the U.S. and China after a tense period of over four months. Although Blinken’s mission was generally regarded as successful in reestablishing communication between the two global powers, he faced challenges in reviving military-to-military talks with China.

Biden acknowledged the current state of affairs, stating, “We find ourselves in a situation where President Xi wants to rebuild the relationship.” Reflecting on Secretary Blinken’s recent visit, Biden expressed confidence in his efforts, stating, “Antony Blinken just went over there…did a commendable job, but it will require time.” Biden made these remarks on Tuesday evening.

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