President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping engaged in a phone conversation on Tuesday, marking their first discussion since their face-to-face meeting last November, the White House confirmed. The leaders covered a range of topics during the call, including artificial intelligence, counternarcotics efforts, and climate issues, according to the White House's summary.

The call was described as "candid and constructive," with discussions touching on various bilateral, regional, and global matters. Both President Biden and President Xi expressed their commitment to maintaining open channels of communication and effectively managing their relationship through diplomatic processes and consultations in the coming weeks and months.

One of the key aspects emphasized by President Biden was the need for peace and stability in Taiwan, especially before the upcoming inauguration of Lai Ching-te, who won the island's presidential election in January. The U.S. reiterated its commitment to the "One China" policy, which acknowledges Taiwan as part of China, while urging for peaceful resolution and continued dialogue.

The leaders also revisited the progress made during their previous meeting, where they agreed to enhance military-to-military communications and address issues related to fentanyl trafficking. Tuesday's call further solidified their commitment to maintaining regular dialogue and strengthening communication channels.

President Biden took the opportunity to raise concerns over China's support of Russia's ongoing war against Ukraine and its recent actions in the South China Sea. Specifically, they discussed incidents involving Filipino vessels near Second Thomas Shoal, with the U.S. reiterating its commitment to defending the Philippines under a 1951 treaty in the event of an armed attack.

Additionally, President Biden highlighted the importance of taking decisive actions against illegal narcotics trafficking and restricting the flow of precursor chemicals used in the production of synthetic drugs.

Amidst the call, the White House announced that senior U.S. officials are preparing to travel to China in the coming weeks. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen is scheduled to depart on Wednesday for a six-day trip with engagements in Guangzhou and Beijing. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is also expected to visit China, though specific dates have yet to be confirmed.

The phone call between President Biden and President Xi serves as a testament to their ongoing efforts to maintain a robust and regular dialogue, aiming to prevent unintended conflicts and address critical global issues. As both leaders continue to engage in high-level discussions, the world will closely monitor the outcomes and developments in the U.S.-China relationship.