Trump reflected on his past negotiations with Beijing, claiming he had achieved a “great trade deal” during his first presidency in 2020….reports Asian Lite News
US President Donald Trump has expressed optimism about striking a new trade deal with China, citing his “very good relationship” with Chinese President Xi Jinping as a key factor. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Wednesday, Trump reflected on his past negotiations with Beijing, claiming he had achieved a “great trade deal” during his first presidency in 2020.
“But remember, he loves China, and I love the USA. So, you know, right there, there’s a little bit of competitiveness,” Trump remarked, while praising Xi as a “very unique person.” He also hinted at the possibility of welcoming Xi to the White House in the future, saying, “We’ll have, ultimately, President Xi” visiting.
In response to Trump’s comments, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun emphasised the importance of resolving disputes through dialogue. Speaking in Beijing, Guo stated, “Trade wars and tariff wars produce no winners and harm the interests of people in all countries.” He urged both nations to address their concerns “based on equality and mutual respect,” according to Chinese state media outlet Global Times.
Reports from the New York Times suggest Trump is eyeing a deal that includes significant Chinese investments and commitments to purchase more American goods. This would follow the 2020 agreement, under which Beijing pledged to buy an additional USD 200 billion worth of US goods and services but fell short of targets, citing the Covid-19 pandemic.
Trump’s advisors have indicated that he also hopes to include broader issues, such as nuclear security, in future talks with Xi. However, relations between Washington and Beijing remain tense, with ongoing disputes over trade tariffs, cybersecurity, Taiwan, Hong Kong, human rights, and the TikTok app.
Earlier this month, Trump escalated trade tensions by imposing a 10 per cent customs duty on all Chinese imports, prompting Beijing to retaliate with tariffs of up to 15 per cent on American goods. China has since filed a complaint with the World Trade Organization. Trump also signed executive orders imposing 25 per cent tariffs on steel and aluminium, effective March 12.
Meanwhile, Trump signalled his willingness to negotiate over TikTok, expressing interest in a sale to preserve American jobs. He reiterated his stance from earlier remarks, stating that the US should own 50 per cent of TikTok if a deal is made.
On Truth Social, Trump recently wrote that he and Xi could “solve many problems together,” reaffirming his belief in a cooperative approach to global peace and security.
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