BEIJING — Senator Steve Daines of Montana, a steadfast ally of President Donald Trump, engaged in amicable dialogue with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng amid heightened tensions over trade tariffs and fentanyl trafficking. This meeting in Beijing marked Daines as the first U.S. congressman to visit the Chinese capital since Trump’s presidency began in January.
In an itinerary that includes a meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Sunday, Vice Premier He Lifeng hinted at a briefing about China’s policy landscape for Daines. Having previously worked with Procter & Gamble in Guangzhou, this current visit is Daines’ sixth to China, following an earlier meeting with Li in 2018 when he was the Communist Party’s senior official in Shanghai.
Daines stressed the visit’s significance, expressing that “constructive dialogue” has been the foundation of his longstanding interactions with China. His approaches have consistently supported open talks to navigate complex issues affecting U.S.-China relations.
After the meeting, the U.S. Embassy in China shared on X that Daines reiterated Trump’s demand for China to halt the flow of fentanyl precursors. Additionally, Daines expressed optimism for more high-level discussions between the two countries. Meanwhile, He stated China’s readiness for frank engagement with the U.S., emphasizing the importance of respect and equality in their economic and trade exchanges. He noted that both nations have substantial shared interests and potential for partnership.
This trip, commencing on Thursday, involved coordination with the White House as Daines represents Trump’s “America First” policy. With trade tariffs posing significant bilateral issues during Trump’s initial term, Daines had previously acted as a mediator. He also communicated with Chinese leaders about stringent measures against fentanyl production and broadening market access for American agricultural products.
Tensions between the two economic superpowers have escalated as Trump’s administration levied 20% tariffs on Chinese imports, prompting China to impose 15% duties on U.S. agriculture. The U.S. also criticized China for insufficient action in restricting the export of fentanyl precursors linked to an opioid crisis in America.
In response, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi accused the U.S. of responding to China’s offers of goodwill with hostility, pledging continued retaliation against what Beijing deems as “arbitrary tariffs.” China’s subsequent report highlighted its measures to control fentanyl distribution, emphasizing ongoing collaborations with the U.S. for addressing narcotics issues, despite condemning American sanctions.
Daines’ visit to China succeeded a trip to Vietnam, where he also met with top officials, underscoring the broader diplomatic efforts of his current international tour.
