Biden summits Peru Brazil/ Trump presidency impact/ Biden international diplomacy/ U.S.-China relations Biden Xi/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ President Joe Biden embarks on a six-day visit to Peru and Brazil, attending two key international summits amid global anticipation over the implications of Donald Trump’s recent presidential victory. Biden’s talks at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit and the G20 meeting will address topics including climate change, infrastructure, and ongoing conflicts, but the focus of world leaders remains on how Trump’s return could reshape foreign relations and global policies.
Biden Heads to APEC, G20 Summits Shadowed by Global Concerns over Trump
Biden’s International Summit Visits Come as World Braces for Trump’s Return
Biden’s Final Major Summits as President
President Joe Biden is set to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Peru followed by the G20 summit in Brazil. This six-day trip will likely be one of Biden’s last opportunities to engage with global leaders face-to-face as president. Key summit topics include environmental concerns, infrastructure development, and global security—all amid an atmosphere charged by questions about how President-elect Trump’s policies may reshape international dynamics.
Trump’s Win Overshadows Biden’s Diplomatic Efforts
Although Biden’s agenda is substantial, world leaders are increasingly focused on Trump’s recent electoral victory and his anticipated impact on international relations. Foreign heads of state have been quick to reach out to Trump, while some, including South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol, are already preparing to strengthen personal bonds with the golf-loving Trump as he resumes office.
“This isn’t just a typical summit for Biden,” commented Erin Murphy, an analyst at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. “With his successor being Trump, the world anticipates a major policy shift.” Despite this, White House officials are emphasizing that Biden’s meetings will still focus on issues like climate change, counter-narcotics efforts, and relations with longstanding allies.
Biden’s Talks with Key Leaders, Including China’s Xi
Biden’s meetings are scheduled to include one-on-ones with several leaders, most notably China’s President Xi Jinping. With U.S.-China relations a priority, the two are expected to discuss issues including ongoing trade tensions, technological exchanges with Russia, and concerns over recent security breaches. Trump has already set a tone on China, indicating plans to impose 60% tariffs on Chinese imports, which is likely to shape Xi’s interest in U.S.-China diplomacy under Trump.
Biden’s National Security Adviser, Jake Sullivan, affirmed that Biden’s message to allies remains consistent. “America’s alliances are central to its national security, and they multiply our capabilities,” Sullivan said, stressing that the U.S. stands stronger with its allies.
Concerns over Trump’s Policies on Ukraine, Russia, and the Middle East
Biden also intends to urge allies to sustain support for Ukraine amid its conflict with Russia, while pushing for diplomatic solutions to the conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon. Trump’s approach to these issues remains somewhat unpredictable, and Biden’s meetings may address concerns that the next administration might shift gears, especially on longstanding support for Ukraine.
Between summits, Biden plans to visit the Amazon rainforest—a historic first for a sitting U.S. president.
Biden’s Xi Meeting: A Critical Moment for U.S.-China Relations
Biden’s scheduled talks with Xi may be the most significant meeting during the South American tour. With Biden working to maintain stable U.S.-China relations and counter the influence of China in areas like Russia’s war in Ukraine, the leaders are expected to cover a wide range of issues. China’s increased exports of critical technology to Russia have raised alarm among U.S. intelligence, with Biden’s administration recently imposing sanctions on Chinese companies involved in military support for Moscow.
Tensions between the U.S. and China have been simmering, from the downing of a Chinese surveillance balloon over the U.S. to assertive Chinese military actions in the Pacific region. Sullivan noted that Biden would also raise U.S. concerns about recent cyberattacks allegedly targeting Trump and his campaign, indicating the sensitive nature of security issues between the two nations.
World Leaders Awaiting Trump’s Transition
As Biden’s term draws to a close, many world leaders find themselves in a situation reminiscent of former President Obama’s last days, following Trump’s first election. While Obama counseled patience during a period of global uncertainty, Biden faces different challenges—Trump’s policies and leadership style are now well known. Victor Cha, a former National Security Council official, observed, “Obama advised waiting and seeing, but now the world has a clearer picture of what a Trump administration entails.”
In a symbolic gesture, South Korean President Yoon has reportedly even prepared his golf clubs to reconnect with Trump—a sign of how world leaders are preparing for Trump’s return.
Conclusion
Biden’s South American trip is a pivotal opportunity to advance his agenda while transitioning the U.S. diplomatic approach. Even as Biden discusses pressing issues, Trump’s forthcoming presidency looms over international leaders. For Biden, these summits may serve not only as a final attempt to strengthen alliances but also as a signal that the U.S. is ready for a smooth transition in global leadership.
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