Will CCP Leader Meet Biden in South America and What Will They Discuss

U.S.-China Confrontation. (Video screenshot)

[People News] From November 10 to 21, Peru and Brazil in South America will become the centers for economic exchanges among Asia-Pacific nations. The 31st APEC Leaders’ Informal Meeting and the 19th G20 Leaders’ Summit will be held in these two countries, respectively. This presents a significant opportunity for the CCP to continue advancing its strategic initiatives in the Americas.

Hua Chunying, spokesperson for China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, announced that Xi Jinping will attend the APEC meeting in Lima from November 13 to 17 and will participate in the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro from November 17 to 21, while also visiting Peru and Brazil.

The White House statement noted that U.S. President Joe Biden will travel to Lima, Peru, from November 14 to 16 to attend the APEC Summit, and then to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from November 17 to 19 for the G20 Summit.

Sources have indicated that Biden is expected to meet with Xi Jinping in Lima, with teams on both sides working on the details, though the timing is not yet confirmed. This would be the first meeting between the two leaders this year. However, Chinese spokesperson Mao Ning stated, "I have no information to share." Analysts suggest that Mao Ning likely had not received directives from the top levels in Zhongnanhai and refrained from giving a definitive answer.

Given the recent U.S. election results, where Biden congratulated Donald Trump on his victory—who has pledged to raise tariffs on China—what would Xi and Biden discuss if they meet?

According to Radio France Internationale, China, as a major trade partner of Peru, aims to sign new agreements this week as part of the "New Silk Road" framework, central to China’s foreign policy. Lima and Beijing plan to establish a major cargo port on Peru's coast, positioning Chancay, north of Lima, as China's new gateway to the Americas. This project involves nearly 1,500 workers working nonstop to carve out this massive port from the ground. It is designed to accommodate ships over 400 meters long capable of unloading approximately 18,000 containers.

This colossal project, funded by China, has raised concerns in the U.S., as it could accelerate China’s market entry, including through the shipment of thousands of Chinese electric vehicles.

Analysts indicate that Beijing's development of these trade routes may be a preparatory move to mitigate the impact of a looming U.S.-China trade war.

For Washington and Beijing, this summit is an important opportunity to continue dialogue.

When asked about expectations for the two conferences during a regular press briefing, Mao Ning stated that Xi Jinping would present important initiatives for deepening reform and opening up at APEC, expound on policies for advancing Asia-Pacific cooperation, implement the APEC Putrajaya Vision 2040, build an Asia-Pacific community with a shared future, and attend the G20 Summit under the theme of "Building a Fair World and a Sustainable Planet," advocating multilateralism and building a community with a shared future for humanity.

When answering a question regarding expectations for developing China-Peru and China-Brazil relations, Mao Ning said that there would be an in-depth exchange of views on bilateral relations and key areas of cooperation, that Xi would attend a ceremony for the exchange of cooperation documents, and that China and Brazil are comprehensive strategic partners. Xi is expected to discuss bilateral relations and international and regional issues of common concern and participate in signing ceremonies and joint press conferences.

Mao Ning’s response highlighted China’s strong focus on South America, with plans for numerous cooperative agreements, including efforts to involve South American nations in China’s concept of a "community with a shared future."

Therefore, analysts believe that if Xi meets with Biden, the discussions will likely include topics such as trade, tariffs, and interests in South America. Peru and Brazil are also countries where the U.S. seeks to strengthen bilateral relations, showcase its economic leadership and engagement in the Indo-Pacific, and present strong value propositions. The U.S. also aims to play a key role in addressing global challenges such as hunger, poverty, climate change, health threats, and the debt burden of developing countries. Xi may also use this opportunity to encourage Biden to leverage his final days in office to persuade Trump to show leniency toward China.

When responding to a question from an Agence France-Presse reporter about U.S. tariff increases, Mao Ning said, "For specific questions, please refer to the relevant departments. There are no winners in a trade war..." This marked a notable departure from the usual "wolf warrior" rhetoric and suggested a more conciliatory tone, signaling a potential willingness to compromise.