US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping met for a high-stakes summit in California, with the goal of reducing tensions between the two superpowers. The meeting took place at the picturesque Filoli country estate near San Francisco, where the leaders shook hands and pledged to prevent competition from escalating into conflict. Biden emphasized the need for clear communication and understanding between the two leaders and expressed his willingness to discuss global challenges such as climate change and artificial intelligence. Xi, in response, stressed that conflict and confrontation would have "unbearable consequences" for both countries.

Despite the absence of major breakthroughs, the talks aimed to restore predictability to the US-China relationship. One key issue addressed in the talks was the situation in Taiwan. Biden reassured Xi that the US would adhere to its One China policy, which does not support Taiwanese independence but continues to provide military aid to the island. Both leaders expressed their desire to avoid any conflict across the Taiwan Strait. Human rights concerns in China, including the treatment of the Uyghur Muslim minority, were also expected to be raised by Biden.

The summit, which followed months of diplomatic negotiations, sought to address a range of topics, including trade, sanctions, and cooperation on issues such as drug trafficking and regional conflicts. Possible agreements on resuming military contacts and reducing the flow of fentanyl to the US were anticipated. Russia, seen as a partner of China in an emerging authoritarian alliance, welcomed the meeting and emphasized its importance for everyone.

Xi, on his part, pressed for an end to trade restrictions as the Chinese economy continues to grapple with the impact of its strict COVID-19 policies. He also hosted a dinner with US executives after the summit. The Biden-Xi summit aimed to pave the way for greater understanding and cooperation between the US and China, addressing areas of contention while seeking common ground on global challenges. As the world's two largest economies, both leaders recognized the significance of stable and constructive relations for their respective countries' success.