Xi Jinping’s visit for summits and the inauguration of a port illustrates what some have called China’s economic marginalization of the U.S. in the region.

As a deflated Biden and Xi both arrive in Peru for the summit, the prospect of growing US isolationism will loom over discussions.

In a speech delivered at the Peruvian Congress on Nov 21, 2016, Xi expressed his admiration for the Inca civilization, praising the magnificence of Machu Picchu, the mesmerizing Nazca Lines, and the advanced local pottery, metallurgy and textile techniques. "These achievements continue to radiate the brilliance of wisdom," he said.