Xi Jinping Extends Partnership Invitation to Antony Blinken Amid Looming TikTok Ban in China

Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of fostering partnership rather than rivalry between the US and China during a meeting with top US diplomat Antony Blinken on Friday. The leaders discussed various pressing issues to make progress in the relationship between the world's two largest economies.

Blinken, on his second visit to China in less than a year, acknowledged the positive developments in the relationship but called for more significant actions from Beijing, particularly in terms of reducing support for Russia.

During their meeting at Beijing's Great Hall of the People, President Xi noted that there had been some positive advancements since his last meeting with US President Joe Biden in November. He expressed the view that the US and China should work together as partners rather than competitors.

However, Xi cautioned against what China perceives as US pressure to limit its economic growth. He highlighted issues such as the ban on semiconductor exports and efforts to acquire the popular app TikTok from its Chinese owners. Xi urged the US to take a more constructive approach towards China's progress and development for the benefit of both nations.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi also raised concerns to Blinken about the potential consequences of US pressure leading to a downward spiral in the relationship. He emphasized that certain issues, such as the status of Taiwan, were red lines that should not be crossed in China-US relations.

In their extensive and constructive discussions, Blinken and Wang agreed to hold formal talks on managing artificial intelligence in the coming weeks, recognizing the importance of addressing this rapidly advancing technology. However, Blinken raised alarms about China's support for Russia in its actions in Ukraine, cautioning that such assistance could prolong the conflict and have implications for US-China relations.

Although the US stands ready to take action if necessary, Blinken acknowledged China's assistance in preventing nuclear weapons use by Russia and expressed hope for continued collaboration on global issues, including the situation in the Middle East.

As both countries strive to address their differences responsibly, Blinken stressed the importance of managing the relationship effectively to prevent misunderstandings and miscalculations, which could have far-reaching consequences for the global community.

With tensions escalating in certain areas, including the US Congress's recent decision to push for the divestment of TikTok from its Chinese parent company, both the US and China are navigating a complex relationship with a mix of cooperation and competition on various fronts.

While challenges remain, there is a shared commitment to making progress on the issues agreed upon by the leaders of both nations, in the interest of promoting stability and prosperity for their citizens and the world at large.