US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan's High-Level Meetings in China: Key Takeaways

Jake Sullivan, US National Security Adviser, concluded a three-day visit to China, meeting President Xi Jinping and other top officials. The discussions focused on maintaining open communication channels, military cooperation, and addressing global concerns like the climate crisis, illicit drug flow, and tensions in the South China Sea.

US President Joe Biden's top aide, Jake Sullivan, met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing, concluding a three-day visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties. The high-profile meeting, held at the Great Hall of the People on August 29, followed extensive talks with Chinese officials, including Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Vice-Chair of the Central Military Commission, Zhang Youxia.

During a press conference in Beijing, Sullivan characterized his visit as "a true working visit." According to the White House, the meetings were part of ongoing efforts to maintain communication channels and responsibly manage US-China relations. Plans for an upcoming call between Biden and Xi were also discussed.

Chinese state media Xinhua reported that Xi reaffirmed Beijing's commitment to a "stable, healthy and sustainable" relationship with the US. He emphasized the responsibility both nations have towards history, their people, and global stability. Sullivan reciprocated, stressing that competition need not escalate into conflict, advocating for responsible diplomatic management.

Sullivan highlighted that progress was made on initiatives such as counternarcotics and military communications. He termed the 14 hours of meetings as constructive and noted the likelihood of a future Biden-Xi meeting at the APEC and G20 Summits.

Other global issues, including efforts to reach a ceasefire in Gaza, were also discussed. Sullivan emphasized the US's commitment to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. He voiced concerns about China's support for Russia's defense industrial base and its implications for global security.

The discussions also covered the importance of law enforcement cooperation, tackling the climate crisis, and repatriation of undocumented migrants. Both sides recognized the necessity of maintaining regular military-to-military communications to avoid misunderstandings. The White House underscored the positive outcomes from these dialogues and the importance of continued high-level diplomacy.

(With inputs from agencies.)