After what can be considered an upbeat and positive meeting between Wang and Sullivan, it would seem that both nations are seeking to restore effective communication between the two powers and minimize the potential for conflict. Although the US continues to antagonize Beijing with its actions, China continues to attempt to provide an olive branch and show Washington that the two states can coexist peacefully and respectfully.
While speculation is rife that Xi Jinping has continued to intentionally avoid Biden, US pressure on Beijing for its domestic and international behavior remains strong. China will not be able to reach its goals in the existing global order via continued threat of conflict – Beijing must continue its decades-long path of responsible development and reform, or face turmoil.