Former US President Donald Trump revealed on Thursday that he recently had a “friendly” conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
In an interview, the Republican leader expressed confidence in reaching a trade agreement with China. “It went fine. It was a good, friendly conversation,” Trump told Fox News.
Discussing the possibility of establishing fair trade practices, Trump emphasized his ability to strike a deal with Xi, whom he described as “ambitious.” “I can do that,” Trump stated.
Trump also shared details of the phone call on his social media platform, Truth Social, mentioning that the discussion covered various topics, including balancing trade, combating fentanyl, and TikTok. “We discussed balancing trade, fentanyl, TikTok, and many other subjects. President Xi and I will do everything possible to make the world more peaceful and safe!” he posted.
The call took place last Friday, just days before Trump assumed office as the 47th President of the United States. Xi expressed hope for a “good start” to their relations, while Trump voiced optimism about resolving significant issues together.
Trump’s Tariff Threat Against China
Since assuming office, Trump has proposed a 10% punitive tariff on Chinese imports, citing the trafficking of fentanyl from China into the US through Mexico and Canada. However, the tariffs have yet to be implemented, despite promises made during his campaign.
In addition to China, Trump has also threatened tariffs against the European Union, Mexico, and Canada.
The US and China remain locked in diplomatic and economic disputes, including a growing technological and military rivalry and contentious trade disagreements.
Washington has raised concerns over TikTok, the popular social media app owned by Chinese company ByteDance. Although the US Supreme Court upheld a law banning TikTok, Trump issued an executive order delaying the ban and called for TikTok to sell its US operations.
