Xi’s keynote speech at the World Economic Forum’s virtual Davos Agenda event comes as the world waits for a new phase in U.S.-China relations under Biden, following former President Donald Trump’s single-handed approach. China is on track to surpass the U.S. as the world’s largest economy in a few years and has gradually increased its global presence. Countries will fail if they operate alone, Xi said Monday. He did not mention the U.S. or specific countries, but named the United Nations in a call for international cooperation.
In contrast to U.S. foreign policy under Trump, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said Biden’s administration will begin its China policy with “patience” and consultations with allies. But she said Xi’s speech doesn’t change the U.S. position on China, whether regarding trade or technology.
“We’re in a serious competition with China,” Psaki said at a regular press briefing Monday. “What we’ve seen over the last few years is that China is growing more authoritarian at home and more assertive abroad. And Beijing is now challenging our security, prosperity, and values in significant ways that require a new U.S. approach.”
