The United States has not yet moved to a formal confirmation for a face-to-face meeting between President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit set in San Francisco from November 15 through 17. This stance was clarified by White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, who emphasized that there is no definitive agreement to report at this moment. The White House intends to share more details in the days ahead once they become available, offering a clearer picture of whether top officials will convene in person at the event, or perhaps discuss their respective agendas from separate sessions. (White House spokesperson)
Asked whether the leaders will definitely hold a bilateral session at the summit, Jean-Pierre replied that there is nothing to confirm at this time. Her cautious response reflects the ongoing efforts to coordinate schedules amid a crowded agenda for the gathering. The administration is weighing security, diplomatic protocol, and the broader implications for regional stability and partnership with allies across the Indo-Pacific. (White House briefing)
In related reporting, Axios, citing sources close to the discussions, indicated that the two sides were considering a public statement or a brief encounter on the margins of the summit. The report suggested that discussions might center on resuming direct military contacts between Washington and Beijing, a topic that has hovered over bilateral ties in recent months. Such information underscores how the summit could become a stage for signaling moves in the U.S.–China relationship, even if no formal meeting is scheduled at the time. (Axios)
Earlier, on November 8, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that the United States and China were actively working toward a potential Biden–Xi meeting in San Francisco, aligning diplomatic channels and preparing for possible direct engagement if conditions allow. The remark pointed to ongoing diplomacy aimed at bridging gaps on a range of issues, from trade to security in the Asia-Pacific region. (State Department Statement)
Public commentary about China has remained sharply personal from President Biden, who has described China in stark terms in the past, labeling it a ticking time bomb in the context of strategic competition and the need for careful management of such a powerful global actor. The remark reflected a broader stance within the administration that seeks a balance between steady diplomacy and clear messaging on national security concerns. The evolving tone and approach to Beijing during this period illustrate how high-level engagement can be influenced by both regional dynamics and domestic considerations. (Presidential remarks)