U.S.-China High-Stakes Diplomatic Talks Wrap Up

High-level U.S. and Chinese officials concluded a series of meetings in Beijing aimed at easing tensions between the two superpowers. Key topics included the Middle East, Ukraine, trade, and potential future dialogues between Presidents Biden and Xi. Both sides emphasized the need for equal treatment and substantive discussions.

High-level U.S. and Chinese officials concluded a series of meetings in Beijing aimed at easing simmering tensions between the two superpowers ahead of the Nov. 5 U.S. election.

U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan and China's top diplomat Wang Yi, along with their teams, met behind closed doors on the outskirts of Beijing. The discussions covered contrasting views on the Middle East, Ukraine, Chinese territorial claims, and trade. They also explored potential future talks between Presidents Joe Biden and Xi Jinping and possible communications between theatre-level military commands, which the U.S. has long sought.

Wang emphasized the importance of mutual respect, while the White House highlighted the candid and constructive nature of the discussions. As Biden pushes direct diplomacy, the approach faces scrutiny from analysts aligned with Republican candidate Donald Trump, who view it as too lenient. The U.S. also pressed China on preventing chemicals for fentanyl production and setting AI safety standards, while China raised concerns over U.S. tariffs and export controls and reiterated its claims over Taiwan.

(With inputs from agencies.)