Beijing — On Sunday, China’s Premier Li Qiang emphasized the importance of dialogue over confrontation in easing growing tensions between China and the United States. Both nations are currently embroiled in disputes over trade tariffs and the efforts to mitigate the illegal trafficking of fentanyl. Li’s remarks were made during a meeting with U.S. Senator Steve Daines, a prominent supporter of President Donald Trump, marking Daines’ visit as the first by a congressional member to Beijing since Trump’s inauguration in January. Also present were executives from notable American companies including FedEx Corp., Boeing Co., Qualcomm, and Pfizer.
Li pointed out that the relations between the U.S. and China are at a critical juncture. In a recent conversation with President Trump, Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed hopes that the two countries could develop a partnership that would foster mutual success. Emphasizing the need for cooperation, Li stated, “Our two sides need to choose dialogue over confrontation, win-win cooperation over zero-sum competition.” He iterated China’s desire for the U.S. to join in efforts promoting steady development in bilateral relations.
According to China’s official Xinhua news agency, Li warned that trade wars yield no true victors and reiterated China’s openness to foreign businesses, including those from the United States, encouraging shared development opportunities. He assured that the government would address reasonable business demands, ensuring equitable treatment for both domestic and foreign companies.
Senator Daines, who served as an intermediary in trade matters during Trump’s first term, coordinated this visit in line with Trump’s “America First” agenda. His discussions in Beijing included meetings with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng and Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu, where he conveyed Trump’s urgent call for China to curb the outflow of fentanyl precursors.
The trade frictions have worsened just months into Trump’s second term, with the U.S. enforcing a 20% tariff on Chinese goods reciprocated by Beijing’s 15% duties on American agricultural products. Trump has announced intentions to implement “reciprocal” tariffs, leveling U.S. tariffs with other countries’ import taxes, with disclosures anticipated on April 2.
Speaking earlier at the China Development Forum, a key government event that convenes senior officials and business leaders, Li acknowledged that external factors might lead to shocks in China’s economy. He assured that the government is prepared to implement necessary policies to maintain economic stability. Stressing the importance of open markets against growing instability, Li invited global entrepreneurs to support proactive economic globalization.
While competition is inevitable, Li advocated for fair competition under internationally recognized standards, cautioning against zero-sum dynamics or deliberate suppression by other nations. Equally, the U.S. contends that China has not done enough to curb the export of fentanyl precursor materials, linked to numerous deaths in America. In response, Beijing released a report outlining China’s efforts to regulate fentanyl trade, highlighting their commitment to cooperation while rejecting the unwarranted pressures from the U.S. regarding fentanyl-related challenges.