Xi Jinping sets conciliatory tone ahead of Biden talks

China President Xi Jinping on Wednesday called for co-operation between US and China. His words have come ahead of long-awaited talks with Joe Biden. Relations between the two powers have been strained lately. Both the leaders have not met in person since Biden was elected as US president.

As per diplomats, the two presidents are expected to hold a virtual summit soon. CNN quoted sources as saying the talks could take place next week.

In a letter read by China's ambassador Qin Gang, Xi Jinping set a conciliatory tone.

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"Right now, China-US relations are at a critical historical juncture. Both countries will gain from cooperation and lose from confrontation," Xi said, according to an embassy statement.

"Cooperation is the only right choice," he said.

"China stands ready to work with the United States to enhance exchanges and cooperation across the board, jointly address regional and international issues as well as global challenges and, in the meantime, properly manage differences."

Relations between the United States and China have deteriorated sharply in recent years, with the US worried about Xi's assertive push both at home and abroad.

Tensions have risen in particular over Taiwan, a self-ruling democracy claimed by China and backed by the United States, with Beijing last month making a record number of incursions near the island.

Other areas of tension include human rights, with the United States asserting that Beijing is carrying out genocide against the Uyghur minority, and trade policies that the United States says are unfair.

Biden has largely kept the tougher approach on China of his predecessor Donald Trump, with both administrations considering a rising China to be the top challenge of the 21st century.

But Biden, who as vice president met extensively with Xi, has also indicated he will take a more diplomatic tone and prioritize working with allies on concerns about China.

Biden initially hoped to meet Xi on the sidelines of the recent Group of 20 summit in Rome but the Chinese leader has not gone abroad since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.

(With inputs from agencies)