Trump and Xi Jinping Discuss Trade Amid Rising Tensions
Amid escalating economic and security concerns, President Donald Trump has reportedly engaged in a conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping. According to Trump’s post on Truth Social, the two had a lengthy call on Thursday.
“I just concluded a very good phone call with President Xi, of China, discussing some of the intricacies of our recently made, and agreed to, Trade Deal,” Trump mentioned, adding that the conversation lasted about an hour and a half, leading to positive outcomes for both nations.
The primary focus of their discussion was trade, with Xi extending an invitation for Trump and his wife, Melania, to visit China. Trump reciprocated, inviting Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, to the U.S.
Chinese media first reported on the call, suggesting it was initiated by Trump. Recently, Kevin Hassett, the director of the White House National Economic Council, indicated that a meeting between both leaders was set for this week.
This call follows criticisms from Trump regarding China’s failure to uphold a trade agreement made in May. Just the day before, he labeled Xi as “extremely difficult to work with” on social media.
The negotiations have led to an agreement where the U.S. would cut tariffs on Chinese imports from 145% to 30%, while China would lower its tariffs on U.S. goods from 125% to 10%. However, just a day after the agreement, Trump accused China of not following through, though he didn’t elaborate on specifics.
“The bad news is that China, perhaps not surprisingly to some, HAS TOTALLY VIOLATED ITS AGREEMENT WITH US,” he posted, expressing frustration. “So much for being Mr. NICE GUY!”
Conversely, China has urged the U.S. to reassess its own actions. A spokesperson from the Chinese embassy called on the U.S. to rectify perceived mistakes and uphold agreements made during high-level talks in Geneva.
Despite these tensions, Trump later suggested that any misunderstandings had been resolved between the two leaders. He described the conversation as productive.
“We had a very good talk, and we’ve straightened out any complexity, and it’s very complex stuff,” he stated during a press briefing with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. “I think we’re in very good shape with China and the trade deal.” He emphasized that they are aiming to ensure clarity about the deal’s details.
