China rejects Biden’s meeting request, meets Elon Musk instead.

China’s Foreign Minister Meets with Tesla CEO Elon Musk

China’s foreign minister, Qin Gang, met with Tesla CEO Elon Musk on Tuesday to discuss strained U.S.-Chinese relations. Qin emphasized the importance of “mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation” between the two countries. He also reassured foreign companies that they are welcome in China, despite recent raids on consulting firms and tensions with Washington.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III’s Indo-Pacific Trip

“I’m en route to the Indo-Pacific for the seventh time as Secretary to strengthen our alliances and partnerships in the region. Throughout the trip, I’ll underscore our commitment to peace, stability, and deterrence at a time of historic momentum.”

— Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III (@SecDef) May 30, 2023

Musk’s visit comes as the ruling Communist Party seeks to revive investor interest in China’s slowing economy. Qin highlighted China’s commitment to “high-level opening up” and creating a “market-oriented, law-based, and internationalized business environment.” He also noted that China’s electric vehicle market has “broad prospects for development,” with China accounting for half of global electric vehicle sales and hosting Tesla’s first factory outside the United States.

Musk reportedly expressed Tesla’s willingness to expand its business in China and “opposes decoupling,” referring to fears that the world may split into multiple markets with incompatible products. However, Tesla has not responded to requests for information about Musk’s visit to China.

Recent Tensions

U.S.-Chinese relations have been tense since February, when a Chinese balloon believed to be gathering intelligence was shot down off the South Carolina coast. The Biden administration also warned Beijing against supplying arms to Russia for its war against Ukraine. China has rejected a request for its defense minister to meet with U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin when both are in Singapore this weekend.

Despite these tensions, Qin emphasized that China’s development is an opportunity for the world.

The Western Journal has reviewed this Associated Press story and may have altered it prior to publication to ensure that it meets our editorial standards.