Biden Stresses to Xi Jinping His Concern about China’s Unfair Economic Practices

US President Joe Biden had his first phone conversation with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping late on Wednesday.

According to the White House report, the Democrat emphasized his fundamental concern about Beijing’s coercive and unfair economic practices. He also stressed the repression in Hong Kong. As well as the human rights abuses in Xinjiang, and the increasingly assertive actions in the region, even to Taiwan. Later, Biden confirmed these messages in a tweet.

The US president said he craved good wishes to the Chinese people for Lunar New Year. He also stated that he would work with China when it benefits the American people.

Besides, both leaders exchanged points of view on the fight against the pandemic and common challenges in terms of global health security, climate change, and the prevention of the proliferation of weapons.

Biden is committed to making practical commitments as long as their results are in the American people’s best interests and those of their allies. In this sense, the president reaffirmed his priorities to protect the security, prosperity, health, and lifestyle of the United States. As well as, his intention to preserve the freedom and openness of the Indo-Pacific region.

On the other hand, Xi reminded Biden that the confrontation between China and the US would be a disaster for both countries. He also warned the Democrat that he expects his Administration to handle all matters related to Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Xinjiang with caution. He also advised that Washington and Beijing should reestablish various dialogue mechanisms. This was advised in order to accurately understand the other party’s political intentions and avoid misunderstandings and wrong judgments. 

Phase 1 trade agreement is under review

The talk between the two came on the same day that the White House tenant launched a review in coordination with the Pentagon on multiple national security aspects. They relate to China as part of a broader effort to determine the strategy to counteract Beijing’s rise.

According to the Reuters agency, the US will study new selective restrictions on exports of sensitive technology to China. Simultaneously, the Biden Administration will not lift the tariffs that weigh on the Asian country. Espeically until there is a wide review of the commercial strategy. This will focus on the premise that Washington should work with its allies rather than unilaterally.

Phase 1 of the trade agreement with the Asian giant is “under review.”

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has already listed “the unfair practices” of the Xi government in matters such as the theft of intellectual property and the forced transfer of technology. She also mentioned subsidies that provide an unfair technological advantage.