TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The 2023 APEC summit, a pivotal meeting between the U.S. and China, took place on Wednesday (Nov. 15) on the outskirts of San Francisco, drawing global attention to the strained relations between these superpowers. The four-hour-long talk at the summit hinted at potential easing of tensions, with a particular focus on Taiwan's political situation, acknowledged as a highly sensitive issue.
However, the day was overshadowed by violent clashes outside the Fololi Estate, where the summit was held. Anti-communism protestors and supporters of China's President Xi Jinping engaged in hostile demonstrations, leading to chaotic scenes on the streets of San Francisco. Protestors were reportedly outnumbered and overpowered, with flags of Taiwan and Tibet being raised amid the turmoil.
In anticipation of the meeting between President Joe Biden and President Xi Jinping, the White House reaffirmed its commitment to the one-China policy. Simultaneously, it expressed hope for Taiwan's continued development as a burgeoning democratic state.
This statement, while appearing supportive of China's position, subtly referenced earlier remarks by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Two days before the summit, Blinken emphasized the United States' belief in the freedom of choice for Asian countries in selecting their trading partners.