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Biden, Xi reset relationship but without a ‘breakthrough’ on November 16, 2023 at 10:45 pm

Published

3 years ago

November 16, 2023

President Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping took steps this week to ease tensions across the Indo-Pacific, opening a new chapter after a tumultuous period of uncertainty in the region.

At a high-stakes Wednesday meeting, Biden and Xi reopened military-to-military communications, which could help the countries navigate mishaps in the South China Sea; had a candid discussion about the future of Taiwan; and signaled war was not on the horizon.

Still, experts say the Biden-Xi meeting does not remove many of the lingering tensions between China and the U.S. on the economic and political world order, the tense subject of Taiwan and Beijing’s sovereignty claims across the South China Sea.

“This meeting is not a breakthrough in resolving the strategic mistrust that characterizes this relationship. But it is an important step forward on getting the relationship on a manageable track,” said Rorry Daniels, managing director of the Asia Society Policy Institute.

Biden and Xi met in Woodside, Calif., during the sidelines of an Asia-Pacific economic summit in San Francisco. The closely watched meeting came after relations between the nations deteriorated following the U.S. shootdown of a Chinese spy balloon in February.

But the leaders sent a message that conflict is not inevitable and relations are stable, even if they remain competitive nations. That optimism was on full public display, with Biden and Xi discussing key topics for four hours at a country estate and afterward taking a walk around a garden together.

Biden said the meeting resulted in “positive steps” between the world’s largest economies and said more diplomatic talks would follow.

“We’re talking to our competitors,” he said at a press conference after the meeting. “Being blunt with one another so there’s no misunderstanding is a key element to maintaining global stability and delivering for the American people.”

And Xi told Biden and U.S. officials directly that “planet Earth is big enough for the two countries to succeed.”

“For two large countries like China and the United States, turning their back on each other is not an option,” he said.

Military channels

The reopening of military-to-military communications between senior level officials was a sought-after goal for the U.S. after the channels were cut off last year.

China blocked off military communications after then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) traveled to Taiwan in August 2022. The visit also prompted unprecedented military drills from Chinese forces, as Beijing has expressed concern about the U.S. sending arms to Taiwan and displaying public support for the self-governing island nation.

Military communications are integral to avoid escalation in tense regions like the Indo-Pacific, and even the U.S. and Russia have maintained open lines during the Ukraine war.

Since 2021, the U.S. has accused Chinese pilots of engaging in 180 risky and aggressive maneuvers near American aircraft in the South China Sea and surrounding region.

After the Xi meeting, Biden said the U.S. was now “back to direct, open, clear, direct communications.”

“Vital miscalculations on either side can cause real, real trouble with a country like China or any other major country,” he said. “We made real progress there.”

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, speaking Thursday in Indonesia during a trip to meet with key allies across the Indo-Pacific, said it was unclear if China would stop the behavior but added he was “encouraged” by the announcement.

“There is no substitute for consistent and substantive dialogue between senior leaders,” Austin said. “We will continue to need the mechanism to manage crises and make sure we prevent things from spiraling out of control from time to time.”

David Ochmanek, a senior international and defense researcher at the RAND Corporation, said the resumption of military channels was a good sign and could help to resolve tensions, but it does not solve the broader issue.

“If they don’t change, then this doesn’t necessarily have much meaning,” he said. ‘Reopening the channels doesn’t, in and of itself, reduce the possibility of mishaps, accidents, escalating tensions and things like that [but] it does offer a relief valve if something risky happens.”

Taiwan

Biden and Xi also discussed the complex situation of Taiwan, undoubtedly a touchy subject for both leaders as tensions have flared over the island nation in the past few years.

Biden said he reiterated that the U.S. supports the One China policy, which acknowledges Taiwan is part of China but allows for informal American relations with Taipei.

Xi said at the meeting that Taiwan was the most serious issue and committed to reunifying with the country, according to a senior U.S. official who spoke to Reuters. The Chinese leader said reunification through peace was preferred but also described instances in which force would be used.

Ochmanek said he was not surprised major progress was not made on Taiwan.

“It would have been astonishing if the Chinese had shown any flexibility about Taiwan. I mean, they’ve been unambiguous about this. They call it a core national interest,” he said. “And likewise, it would have been both surprising and a mistake for President Biden to show any reduction in our determination to support Taiwan.”

Other tensions: Human rights, China’s military

Xi signaled Wednesday that nations should not seek to “remodel” the other, which could have been a reference to U.S. allegations of human rights abuses of the ethnic Uighurs and Chinese crackdowns on democracy in Hong Kong.

And the meeting did not appear to address tensions across the South China Sea, where the U.S. has accused Chinese warships of harassing its allies, such as the Philippines, and of exercising rights over parts of the sea that the international community rejects.

Andrew Michta, director of the Scowcroft Strategy Initiative and senior fellow at the Atlantic Council, added that “China’s military buildup is the biggest elephant in the room” that was left out of the picture this week.

“This rapid shift in relative military capabilities continues to destabilize the region, and China’s close alliance with Russia raises the risk of Beijing gaining access to some of Russia’s advanced military technology,” Michta wrote in an analysis.

The two leaders this week did make inroads on China cracking down on illicit fentanyl production, a major win for Biden. And both leaders promised to cooperate on advanced artificial intelligence, which comes as the Pentagon is accelerating a program to develop thousands of autonomous systems, fueling fears of an arms race on the relatively unknown field of AI weapons. Biden said they would remain engaged on the topic, including on what is acceptable to use and what might be dangerous.

Although the Biden administration has touted the talks as good progress, some Republicans have accused the president of catering to the Chinese leader and of failing to win anything significant from the meeting.

“While unsurprising, I am nonetheless disappointed the Biden administration conducted yet another fruitless meeting with the Chinese Communist Party,” said Rep. Michael McCaul (R-Texas), chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, in a statement.

“Having these senior level meetings without getting anything in return and without having any desired outcomes sets a horrible precedent and makes the United States look incredibly weak.”

It’s also not clear if the breakthroughs made this week will last.

Biden and Xi met on the sidelines of the Group of 20 summit last year and relayed a similar message of bridging a divide, only for tensions to drop sharply a few months later when the U.S. shot down the Chinese spy balloon.

But Daniels, from the Asia Society, said the summit delivered wins for both Biden and Xi as China struggles with a weakened economy: the American leader touted Chinese efforts to address fentanyl and military channels, and the Chinese leader telegraphed to investors he has a stable relationship with the U.S., a major economic partner.

“But they got something even bigger than that,” added Daniels. “And that’s to show the rest of the world that they’re committed to manage this relationship responsibly.”

President Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping took steps this week to ease tensions across the Indo-Pacific, opening a new chapter after a tumultuous period of uncertainty in the region. At a high-stakes Wednesday meeting, Biden and Xi reopened military-to-military communications, which could help the countries navigate mishaps in the South China Sea; had a candid…

Business

GLOBAL SUSTAINABILITY SUMMIT RETURNS FOR ITS 5TH EDITION AT THE BRITISH PARLIAMENT – HOUSE OF LORDS, PALACE OF WESTMINSTER

Published

3 weeks ago

May 16, 2026

Bolanle Media Staff

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Theme: “People, Planet, and Profit in the Age of AI and Innovation”

London, United Kingdom — The Global Sustainability Summit (GSS) is officially back for its landmark 5th Edition, continuing its legacy as one of the leading international platforms driving sustainable development, climate action, ethical investment, innovation, and global collaboration.

Convened annually at the prestigious British Parliament, House of Lords, Palace of Westminster, by Ambassador Canon Chinenem Otto, the Summit has, over the last four years, successfully fostered international dialogue and partnerships that have contributed to the advancement of global sustainability goals, the establishment of sustainability-focused ministries, departments and policy structures across national and subnational governments, and the attraction of major investors into sustainable development projects, corporations and emerging economies.

This year’s summit, themed “People, Planet, and Profit in the Age of AI and Innovation,” will explore how emerging technologies, responsible leadership, sustainable finance, innovation, and global partnerships can shape a more inclusive, resilient and environmentally conscious future.

The 5th Edition promises to be the most impactful yet, bringing together world leaders, policymakers, diplomats, investors, academics, innovators, climate experts and youth leaders from across the globe to discuss actionable solutions toward achieving a sustainable and equitable future.

Among the distinguished speakers, delegates and honorees already lined up for the Summit are:

• His Excellency Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq — Executive Governor of Kwara State, Nigeria and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum

• His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Otu — Executive Governor of Cross River State, Nigeria

• Ambassador Patricia Espinosa Cantellano — Former Executive Secretary of UN Climate Change (UNFCCC) and Former Foreign Minister of Mexico

• Lord Marvin Rees, Baron Rees of Easton OBE — Member of the House of Lords, United Kingdom

• Hon. Neema K. Lugangira — Secretary-General of Women Political Leaders (WPL), Brussels and Former Member of Parliament

• Her Excellency Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah — President of the Republic of Namibia

• His Excellency Nangolo Mbumba — Former President of Namibia

• Former President of Tanzania

• Her Excellency Ambassador Professor Olufolake AbdulRazaq — First Lady of Kwara State, Nigeria and Chairperson of Nigeria Governors’ Spouses Forum

• Your Excellency Dr. Dikko Umar Radda, PhD, CON — Executive Governor of Katsina State and Chairman of the Northwest Governors Forum, Nigeria

• Hon. Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma — Governor of Khomas Region, Namibia

• H.E. Mr. Veiccoh Nghiwete — High Commissioner of the Republic of Namibia to the United Kingdom

• Her Excellency Ms. Macenje “Che Che” Mazoka — High Commissioner of Zambia to the United Kingdom

• Ms. Danielle Newman — Partner Lead, ICT, World Economic Forum

• Leanne Elliott Young — Co-founder, Institute of Digital Fashion & CommuneEast

• Ms. Chloe Russell — Producer & Presenter, Art, Science and Nature

• Professor Marie-Claire Cordonier Segger — University of Cambridge & University of Waterloo

• Dr. Alexandra R. Harrington — IUCN World Commission on Environmental Law (WCEL)

• Professor Payam Akhavan — Massey College, University of Toronto

• Mr. Mallai C. E. Sathya — President, Dravida Vetri Kazhagam and International Movement for Tamil Culture Asia

The Summit will feature high-level panel discussions, strategic investment conversations, sustainability awards, policy dialogues, innovation showcases, youth engagement sessions and international networking opportunities focused on climate resilience, ethical financing, food-water-energy sustainability, circular economy, artificial intelligence, diplomacy and sustainable development.

Speaking ahead of the Summit, Convener Ambassador Canon Chinenem Otto noted:

“As the world rapidly evolves through artificial intelligence and technological innovation, we must ensure that sustainability remains people-centered, environmentally responsible and economically inclusive. The Global Sustainability Summit continues to serve as a bridge connecting governments, institutions, innovators and investors to accelerate practical sustainability solutions globally. Our fifth edition is not only a celebration of progress made over the years, but also a renewed call for global collaboration and actionable impact toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and Net Zero ambitions.”

The Global Sustainability Summit continues to position itself as a catalyst for transformative partnerships and sustainable global progress, reinforcing the urgent need for collective action toward a more resilient and sustainable future.

More announcements regarding additional speakers, partners and summit activities will be unveiled in the coming weeks.

News

US May Completely Cut Income Tax Due to Tariff Revenue

Published

6 months ago

November 30, 2025

Bolanle Media Staff

President Donald Trump says the United States might one day get rid of federal income tax because of money the government collects from tariffs on imported goods. Tariffs are extra taxes the U.S. puts on products that come from other countries.

What Trump Is Saying

Trump has said that tariff money could become so large that it might allow the government to cut income taxes “almost completely.” He has also talked about possibly phasing out income tax over the next few years if tariff money keeps going up.

How Taxes Work Now

Right now, the federal government gets much more money from income taxes than from tariffs. Income taxes bring in trillions of dollars each year, while tariffs bring in only a small part of that total. Because of this gap, experts say tariffs would need to grow by many times to replace income tax money.

Questions From Experts

Many economists and tax experts doubt that tariffs alone could pay for the whole federal budget. They warn that very high tariffs could make many imported goods more expensive for shoppers in the United States. This could hit lower- and middle‑income families hardest, because they spend a big share of their money on everyday items.

What Congress Must Do

The president can change some tariffs, but only Congress can change or end the federal income tax. That means any real plan to remove income tax would need new laws passed by both the House of Representatives and the Senate. So far, there is no detailed law or full budget plan on this idea.

What It Means Right Now

For now, Trump’s comments are a proposal, not a change in the law. People and businesses still have to pay federal income tax under the current rules. The debate over using tariffs instead of income taxes is likely to continue among lawmakers, experts, and voters.

News

Epstein Files to Be Declassified After Trump Order

Published

6 months ago

November 20, 2025

Bolanle Media Staff

Former President Donald Trump has signed an executive order directing federal agencies to declassify all government files related to Jeffrey Epstein, the disgraced financier whose death in 2019 continues to fuel controversy and speculation.

The order, signed Wednesday at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate, instructs the FBI, Department of Justice, and intelligence agencies to release documents detailing Epstein’s network, finances, and alleged connections to high-profile figures. Trump described the move as “a step toward transparency and public trust,” promising that no names would be shielded from scrutiny.

“This information belongs to the American people,” Trump said in a televised statement. “For too long, powerful interests have tried to bury the truth. That ends now.”

U.S. intelligence officials confirmed that preparations for the release are already underway. According to sources familiar with the process, the first batch of documents is expected to be made public within the next 30 days, with additional releases scheduled over several months.

Reactions poured in across the political spectrum. Supporters praised the decision as a bold act of accountability, while critics alleged it was politically motivated, timed to draw attention during a volatile election season. Civil rights advocates, meanwhile, emphasized caution, warning that some records could expose private victims or ongoing legal matters.

The Epstein case, which implicated figures in politics, business, and entertainment, remains one of the most talked-about scandals of the past decade. Epstein’s connections to influential individuals—including politicians, royals, and executives—have long sparked speculation about the extent of his operations and who may have been involved.

Former federal prosecutor Lauren Fields said the release could mark a turning point in public discourse surrounding government transparency. “Regardless of political stance, this declassification has the potential to reshape how Americans view power and accountability,” Fields noted.

Officials say redactions may still occur to protect sensitive intelligence or personal information, but the intent is a near-complete disclosure. For years, critics of the government’s handling of Epstein’s case have accused agencies of concealing evidence or shielding elites from exposure. Trump’s order promises to change that narrative.

As anticipation builds, journalists, legal analysts, and online commentators are preparing for what could be one of the most consequential information releases in recent history.