WEBDESK: Chinese Premier Li Qiang has emphasized the importance of dialogue over confrontation in China-US relations during a meeting with U.S. Senator Steve Daines in Beijing. The meeting comes at a time of rising tensions between the two countries, particularly over trade tariffs and security concerns.
Premier Li urged Washington to work with Beijing for steady and sustainable development in China-US relations. He expressed hope that both sides could find common ground and avoid further escalation of economic and political disputes. The meeting was attended by top executives from major U.S. companies, including FedEx, Pfizer, and Qualcomm, signaling an effort to strengthen business ties despite ongoing trade challenges.
One of the major points of discussion was the impact of U.S. tariffs on Chinese exports. The tariffs, initially imposed by former President Donald Trump, have strained China-US relations by limiting trade opportunities. Premier Li highlighted China’s commitment to economic globalization and fairness in global markets, urging the U.S. to reconsider its economic policies.
“Our two sides need to choose dialogue over confrontation, win-win cooperation over zero-sum competition,” Li told Daines.
CEOs of major firms including FedEx, Pfizer and Qualcomm were also present.
Li said he hoped Washington would “work together with China to promote the steady, sound and sustainable development” of relations.
Earlier on Sunday, Li told the China Development Forum that Beijing would pursue economic globalisation despite “fragmentation”, a thinly veiled reference to trade turmoil sparked by Trump.
Another key issue was the ongoing fentanyl crisis in the United States. The U.S. has accused China of not doing enough to stop the flow of fentanyl and its precursor chemicals. However, China insists it has already cracked down on illegal drug production and trade, urging the U.S. to take further steps on its end.
Vice Premier He Lifeng also met with Senator Daines and reiterated China’s stance against the politicization of economic issues. He stressed that China-US relations still have many areas for cooperation and urged both countries to engage in constructive dialogue.
As tensions continue, the outcome of these discussions remains uncertain. However, China’s call for dialogue signals a willingness to improve China-US relations and find diplomatic solutions to ongoing conflicts.
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