After Apec tensions, expect ‘extra pressure’ when Xi Jinping and Donald Trump meet at G20
- Atmosphere described as ‘extremely tense’ at Pacific nations summit, and observers say it reflects reality of rivalry between China and the US
- Washington will be seeking to maximise pressure on Beijing ahead of crunch meeting at G20 summit, according to analysts
Beijing should prepare for tough talks when Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump meet at the G20 summit after open hostility between the two nations at the Apec gathering, observers say.
That hostility resulted in the 21 Pacific Rim leaders for the first time failing to reach a consensus on a formal declaration at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting in Port Moresby over the weekend, and it is expected to overshadow future trade negotiations between Beijing and Washington.
On Monday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said many developing nations opposed trade protectionism, and he denied China’s stance was the reason there was no agreement. “Power politics and economic bullying is opposed by most Apec members,” Geng said.
Three delegates from Papua New Guinea described the atmosphere between China and the United States at the summit as “extremely tense”.
Chinese delegates on Saturday left the hall after Xi made his speech, and before Pence gave his.