Blinken winces at President Biden calling Chinese leade “dictator”

A recent incident during a press conference highlighted a subtle but notable reaction from U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken. President Joe Biden referred to Chinese leader Xi Jinping as a “dictator,” a remark that visibly caused Blinken to wince. This occurred in the context of a meeting aimed at easing strained relations between the U.S. and China.

Biden’s characterization of Xi Jinping as a dictator was not new; he had made similar remarks in June. However, the President’s reiteration of this belief during the press conference seemed to catch Blinken off guard, leading to his apparent discomfort. This reaction was captured in a video, drawing attention to the delicate nature of diplomatic relations and the sensitivity of language used in international politics.

Despite this moment of apparent unease, Secretary Blinken stood by President Biden’s statements. This incident underscores the complex dynamics of U.S.-China relations and the challenges faced by diplomats in navigating these waters. The Biden administration’s stance on China has been marked by a mix of confrontation and cooperation, reflecting broader geopolitical tensions and the intricate balance needed in dealing with major global powers.

Blinken’s reaction, though subtle, speaks to the high stakes and intricacies of diplomatic interactions, especially concerning powerful nations like China. The incident also highlights the importance of carefully chosen words in diplomacy and the potential implications of even the slightest departure from expected norms in international relations

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