Biden Diplomatic Dance: In a calculated maneuver, the Biden administration has opted to remove the Chinese Ministry of Public Security’s Institute of Forensic Science from the trade sanction list, a move aimed at persuading Beijing to intensify efforts in curbing the influx of synthetic opioid fentanyl into the United States. The institute had faced sanctions since 2020 over alleged abuses against Uyghurs and other minority groups, restricting its access to goods from U.S. suppliers.
This decision, strategically executed after talks between President Biden and China’s President Xi Jinping at the APEC forum, has drawn criticism from various quarters. Critics argue that the move signifies a potential compromise on human rights concerns in exchange for Chinese collaboration on the fentanyl issue. The creation of a counter-narcotics cooperation working group was agreed upon during the meeting, although specifics of China’s commitments remain undisclosed.
Notably, the removal of the institute from the sanction list has faced backlash from human rights activists and Republicans who accuse the Biden administration of taking a lenient stance on Beijing’s treatment of Uyghurs. Rayhan Asat, a human rights lawyer with Uyghur heritage, raised questions about prioritizing the fentanyl issue over addressing China’s rights abuses, emphasizing the United States’ legal obligation to tackle atrocity crimes.
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Washington’s emphasis on blocking fentanyl precursor chemicals aligns with the alarming rise in overdose deaths linked to the drug, as reported by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The decision to lift sanctions, outlined in the Federal Register notice, involved a thorough review by a committee representing various U.S. departments.
As the administration navigates the nuanced terrain of addressing drug-related challenges and human rights considerations, the diplomatic chess game between the U.S. and China unfolds. Stay tuned for ongoing insights into the evolving dynamics of this delicate diplomatic scenario.
Our Reader’s Queries
What’s at stake in the Biden XI meeting?
It is possible that Biden will reaffirm the US’s backing of the “one China” policy, acknowledging Beijing as the only legitimate government of China. However, he may also caution Xi against meddling in Taiwan’s upcoming presidential election. This move could help maintain stability in the region and prevent any potential conflicts.
Where is Xi Jinping and Biden meeting?
President Biden recently met with President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China in Woodside, California. The two leaders engaged in an open and productive conversation about various global and bilateral matters, exploring potential areas of collaboration while also discussing their differences. The meeting was a positive step towards fostering a constructive relationship between the two nations.
How tall is Xi Jinping?
At 11:49 am EST on January 20, 2021, Joe Biden was officially sworn in as the 46th president of the United States by U.S. Chief Justice John Roberts. He completed the oath of office just eleven minutes before his term legally began.