The Intelligence from The Economist Defrost setting: the Xi-Biden summit
Nov 17, 2021
David Rennie, Beijing bureau chief for The Economist, shares insights on the recent Xi-Biden summit, where leaders discussed strained US-China relations, focusing on sensitive topics like Taiwan and climate change. Matt Steinglass, Europe correspondent, highlights the urgent need for Europe to modernize its rail network, grappling with the past glory of its transport systems while facing climate targets. Additionally, they discuss South Korea's cultural obsession with body profile photos, revealing societal pressures on youth and the thin line between personal achievements and appearance.
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US-China Relations
- Xi Jinping and Joe Biden held a cordial online meeting to ease tensions.
- The relationship deteriorated during the Trump era and hasn't improved.
Meeting Agenda
- The meeting covered disagreements like trade and human rights, alongside shared interests.
- Biden reassured China about Taiwan's independence, which was crucial for Beijing.
Media Portrayal
- Chinese state media portrayed the meeting positively, focusing on Biden's Taiwan stance.
- This marks a shift from recent negative rhetoric towards the US.