BEIJING — U.S. Senator Steve Daines, an ardent advocate of former President Donald Trump, made a visit to Beijing, engaging in discussions with a prominent Chinese official amidst ongoing tensions over trade tariffs and fentanyl-related disputes between the U.S. and China.
Daines, who represents Montana as a Republican, traveled to China’s capital on Thursday following his meet-up with key officials in Vietnam. This was highlighted through his social media updates and communications from the U.S. Embassy in Beijing. On Friday, Daines met with Ma Zhaoxu, China’s Vice Foreign Minister, where they had an in-depth dialogue about the bilateral relations and shared concerns, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry.
Earlier this week, Daines took to X to announce his intentions to address crucial issues with Chinese authorities including curbing fentanyl production and distribution. He also aimed at rectifying trade imbalances and advocating for fair market access for agricultural products from Montana. His trip was synchronized with the White House, as Daines carried Trump’s ‘America First’ policy with him.
Having previously worked in China as an executive, Daines has acted as a liaison during Trump’s initial term, a period marked by significant tariff disputes. His Beijing visit marked him as the first congress member to step foot in China since Trump’s presidential commencement in January.
Mao Ning, a spokeswoman for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, conveyed China’s receptiveness to Daines’ visit and emphasized that fostering stable and sustainable U.S.-China relations benefits both nation’s citizens as well as meeting global expectations. Though specifics about Daines’ itinerary were not disclosed, Mao highlighted China’s stance on resolving differences through dialogue underpinned by mutual respect and equality.
The backdrop of Daines’ visit includes heightened tensions following the U.S.’s 20% tariffs on Chinese imports, prompting a retaliatory 15% tax on American agricultural goods by China in the preceding week. The U.S. has criticized China for insufficient efforts in preventing the export of fentanyl precursors, a powerful synthetic opioid responsible for numerous fatalities in the U.S.
In response, China published a report highlighting its active measures against illegal fentanyl trade, particularly against precursors manufactured in China. The Foreign Minister criticized the U.S. for responding negatively to China’s cooperative gestures with trade tariffs.
The report also noted ongoing high-level discussions since early last year to foster cooperation between the two countries. Moreover, China’s Narcotics Control Bureau has maintained regular interactions with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency. China reiterated its willingness for collaboration but stood firm against what it deems unjust sanctions and excessive pressure imposed by the U.S.
Additionally, Friday saw China’s Commerce Minister Wang Wentao engage in a meeting with David Ricks, the CEO of Eli Lilly and Co. Wang expressed hope that while multinational corporations navigate external uncertainties, they continue to operate within the Chinese market.