Firm, Open Tone At Start Of Biden-Xi Call

An open but firm tone probably best describes the opening round of comments ahead of the Biden-Xi phone call.

• U.S. President Biden noted that he is looking for a candid conversation, stressing that he doesn't want competition between the two superpowers to evolve into conflict. Biden underscored the need for "common sense" guardrails and a rules-based system, while pointing to a shared responsibility to the world, as well as to the people of each nation. Biden flagged the areas of human rights and the situation in the Indo-Pacific region as core areas of concern, while stressing that the U.S. will always stand up for its values.
• Chinese President Xi, pointed to a need for increased communication and cooperation between the two countries, with respect, which would promote a peaceful coexistence. Xi also indicated a want to advance Sino-U.S. relations in a "positive direction" come the end of today's "wide-ranging and comprehensive" discussion.