Biden had compared Chinese President Xi Jinping to “dictators,” a statement that has drawn sharp criticism from Beijing.

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning, during a regular briefing, labeled Biden's remarks as a violation of basic facts, diplomatic protocol, and China's political dignity. She further described them as an “open political provocation.”

Biden's comments come shortly after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit to Beijing aimed at stabilizing bilateral relations, which China claims are currently at their lowest point since the establishment of formal ties.

Biden made a personal comment about Xi Jinping, stating that the Chinese leader was “very embarrassed” when a suspected Chinese spy balloon drifted off course into US airspace earlier this year. Blinken had suggested closing that “chapter” during his visit.

The reasons behind Biden's comments regarding Xi remain unclear. Xi Jinping is China's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong, having secured a precedent-breaking third term as president and head of the Communist Party.

During a fundraiser event in California, Biden shared the incident involving the spy balloon and commented on how dictators feel embarrassed when they are unaware of such occurrences. He also mentioned that China is facing significant economic difficulties.

While Blinken's visit aimed to stabilize the tense rivalry between the United States and China, it did not yield any major breakthrough. However, both sides agreed to maintain diplomatic engagement, with more visits by US officials planned in the coming weeks and months. Biden also mentioned that US climate envoy John Kerry might soon visit China.

Biden expressed optimism about the trajectory of US-China relations, stating that progress was made during Blinken's trip. He also noted that Xi Jinping had expressed concerns about the “Quad” strategic security group, consisting of Japan, Australia, India, and the United States. Biden reassured Xi that the US was not attempting to encircle China through the Quad.

The comments made by President Biden and the subsequent response from China underscore the ongoing challenges in the complex relationship between the two nations. Diplomatic engagement and efforts to avoid conflict will be vital as both sides navigate their differences and seek common ground. (ILKHA)