CCP leader hails Bill Gates as ‘my first American friend in Beijing this year’ during China meeting.

Xi Jinping Praises Bill Gates as a “Friend” during Beijing Meeting

Chinese Communist Party General Secretary Xi Jinping had high praise for American billionaire and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates during their recent meeting in Beijing.

Gates, who was visiting China to discuss pandemic prevention and technological development, was hailed as the “first American friend” Xi has met in Beijing this year. The discussion, broadcast on China Central Television, emphasized the importance of friendly relations between the Chinese and American people.

Xi and Bill Gates meet in Beijing.

Xi: “You are the first American friend I’ve met in Beijing this year.”

Gates: “I’m very excited to be back.” pic.twitter.com/UQoV40XKbF

— Citizen Free Press (@CitizenFreePres) June 16, 2023

In addition to pandemic prevention, Xi and Gates reportedly discussed artificial intelligence, although the details of their conversation have not been disclosed.

Gates, who has been working on global health and development challenges with the Gates Foundation, expressed his excitement about visiting China after a long absence. He also acknowledged China’s expertise in addressing issues such as poverty and health, stating that there is much to learn from the country’s innovative approaches.

However, Gates has faced criticism for his previous praise of China and allegations that Microsoft aided in the censorship of Chinese dissidents. Despite these controversies, the meeting between Xi and Gates highlights the ongoing importance of maintaining open lines of communication between China and the United States.

The meeting between Xi and Gates precedes U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s upcoming trip to China, which aims to address bilateral issues and explore potential cooperation on shared challenges. This visit follows a secret trip made by CIA Director William Burns in May, indicating the ongoing efforts to foster dialogue between the two nations.