During the recent Quad Leaders’ Summit held in Delaware, U.S. President Joe Biden was caught on a hot mic making candid remarks about China, describing the nation as “testing us all” with its aggressive actions across the Indo-Pacific region. These remarks were overheard after the formal opening of the summit, which included leaders from India, Japan, and Australia.
Biden’s comments were in reference to China’s increasing assertiveness, particularly in the South and East China Seas, and highlighted the concerns over China’s territorial claims. This incident, though unscripted, underscored the ongoing geopolitical tensions between China and the Quad nations. Biden emphasized that China continues to act aggressively, testing global powers not only militarily but also in economic and technological domains. He mentioned that Chinese President Xi Jinping is likely focused on managing internal economic challenges while simultaneously pursuing China’s external interests with increased diplomatic maneuvering
The Quad summit, consisting of Australia, India, Japan, and the U.S., has gained prominence in recent years as a forum for promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific. While Biden’s remarks made headlines, the official Quad statement avoided direct reference to China but expressed concerns over “destabilizing” actions in the region. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to promoting regional stability and resisting coercive changes to the status quo
Biden’s candid remarks have drawn attention due to the broader context of U.S.-China relations, which have seen both diplomatic tension and attempts at re-engagement. Despite the hot mic incident, the White House downplayed the gaffe, stating that Biden’s comments were consistent with official U.S. policy on China. This episode reflects the strategic importance of the Quad in countering China’s rise while navigating delicate international relations(DW).
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