Trump’s attitude towards China looms over Biden’s meeting with Xi

(NewsNation) — President Joe Biden will meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping at a economic summit in Peru on Saturday.

NewsNation Washington correspondent Kellie Meyer says the trip will likely be overshadowed by Donald Trump’s tough stance on China.

White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan called competition with China a major concern as President Biden hands the reins to President-elect Trump. he said the meeting takes place during a “critical moment between the US and China” and will “make sure we don’t run into any problems in the next two months in this power transition.”

Live: Jose Ibarra is on trial in the death of Georgia student Laken Riley

Sullivan was opaque about how Biden and administration officials will respond to expected questions from Xi and his aides about the incoming Trump administration.

“Transitions are unique consequential moments in geopolitics. It’s a time when competitors and adversaries can see possible opportunities,” Sullivan said. “And so part of what President Biden will communicate is that we have to maintain stability, clarity, predictability through this transition between USA and China.”

During his campaign against Vice President Kamala Harris, Trump promised to slap 60% tariffs on all Chinese exports to the United States, a move that would upset the already tumultuous relationship between Beijing and Washington.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

For the latest news, weather, sports and streaming video, go to NewsNation.