Xi referring to Bill Gates as an “old friend” is not seen as a compliment, according to experts.

Chinese Leader Xi Jinping Meets Bill Gates in Beijing

Chinese leader Xi Jinping recently met with Microsoft Corp. co-founder Bill Gates in Beijing, referring to him as an “old friend.” However, according to Jon Pelson, author of “Wireless Wars, China’s Dangerous Domination of 5G and How We’re Fighting Back,” this term is not actually complimentary.

In a meeting at Beijing’s Diaoyutai state guest house, where China’s leaders traditionally receive senior foreign visitors, Xi expressed his happiness in seeing the Microsoft co-founder after three years. He also mentioned that Gates was the first American friend he had met this year.

“I often say the foundation of U.S.-China relations lies with its people. I place my hopes on the American people,” Xi stated in a video published by state broadcaster CCTV.

“With the current global situation, we can carry out various activities beneficial to our two countries and people, activities that benefit humanity as a whole,” he added.

Gates, who arrived in Beijing on Wednesday, expressed his honor in having the chance to meet Xi. He mentioned that they have always had great conversations and that they would discuss important topics during their meeting.

Pelson, in an interview with “China in Focus” on NTD, The Epoch Times’ sister media outlet, explained that being a “friend of China” is not necessarily a complimentary term. It refers to someone who aligns with China’s objectives and goals, even if it may not be in the best interest of the Chinese people.

“It’s disturbing but not surprising to see Bill Gates embracing a huge authoritarian government whose philosophy is: ‘We’re smarter and better and will tell people what to do and it’s for your own good,'” Pelson added.

Different Agenda

Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has kicked off two days of high-stakes diplomatic talks in Beijing. This comes after months of urging from the Biden administration for the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) to reestablish normal bilateral communications.

Blinken started his trip by meeting Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang for an extended discussion.