Xi Jinping Calls Biden "My Old Friend"... Is a Reconciliation Mood Emerging? (Comprehensive)

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Suhwan] "I am so happy to meet my long-time friend."

During the opening remarks of the US-China virtual summit held on the 16th (local time), Chinese President Xi Jinping once again highlighted his long-standing friendship with US President Joe Biden.

This is interpreted as an attempt to promote the improvement of US-China relations by emphasizing the friendship built since Biden’s vice presidency over a decade ago.

On the same day, President Biden also expressed his anticipation for the meeting by telling President Xi, "I look forward to having an honest conversation."

The summit attracted global attention as it was the first meeting since Biden took office amid escalating US-China tensions over Taiwan, Hong Kong, and trade disputes.

The friendship between President Biden and President Xi dates back to the early 2010s when they served as vice president and vice chairman, respectively. Biden left a deep impression on the Chinese people with his characteristic openness.

A representative example is when Vice President Biden visited China in August 2011 and held talks with Vice Chairman Xi. After the meeting, Biden went to a modest restaurant in Beijing, ate noodles, and mingled with Chinese citizens. At the time, Chinese media praised this as "noodle diplomacy" and responded favorably.

On December 4, 2013, President Xi hosted a dinner for then-Vice President Biden during his return visit to China, saying, "Vice President Joe Biden, we warmly welcome your visit to China once again. You are my long-time friend," showcasing their friendship. Vice President Biden reciprocated by describing their relationship as a "friendship."

The New York Times (NYT) reported in July last year that Biden met with Xi at least eight times over 18 months starting in early 2011, traveling back and forth between the US and China, spending more than 25 hours dining together with only interpreters present. Last month, President Biden said at a town hall event, "I have spent more time with Xi Jinping than with any other world leader."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.