Biden's conversation with Xi angers China
On Wednesday, US President Joe Biden reaffirmed his belief that Chinese President Xi Jinping functions as a dictator. This statement comes despite Biden's acknowledgment that his recent interactions with Xi have shown some progression.
"He is a dictator in the sense that he rules a communist country, where the form of government is fundamentally different from ours," Biden told CNN. Regardless, he affirmed, "We've made progress."
As US media has pointed out, this comment will likely upset Beijing, reminiscent of their sharp reaction last summer when President Biden made a similar remark.
Biden then referenced Xi's reaction to an incident where the United States shot down a Chinese spy balloon that had crossed into its territory.
"Xi Jinping was so upset when we shot down a balloon carrying spy equipment because he wasn't aware the balloon was even there. Such ignorance is a significant embarrassment for any dictator," Biden had commented back in June.
Beijing's reaction in June was swift and indignant. "The remarks seriously contradict basic facts, seriously violate diplomatic etiquette, and seriously infringe on China's political dignity," announced a spokesperson from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Joe Biden's Wednesday comment may endanger the burgeoning US-China relationship fortified at the most recent leaders' meeting. Biden referred to this meeting during a press conference, dubbing it "one of the most constructive and productive discussions we've ever had".
