China's Ambassador Calls for Change, Highlights Investor Confidence

China's Ambassador to the U.S. Calls for a Change in Approach

In a speech marking the first 50 days of the Trump administration, China's ambassador to the United States, Xie Feng, urged Washington to abandon its "maximum pressure" approach and instead collaborate to build a stable and sound bilateral relationship.

Xie acknowledged the challenges facing the relationship, noting that heavy-handed strategies like tariffs and trade wars are unproductive. He emphasized the historical resilience of the Chinese people and their ability to overcome adversity.

"The Chinese people are resilient — we have endured many hardships yet remain steadfast, confident and perseverant," he said. "China's development, progress and prosperity are built on the sweat and toil of its people for generations. No one and no force can deny us a better future."

Xie argued that the "maximum pressure" approach and other restrictive measures are futile and urged the U.S. to reconsider its tactics. He called for a return to dialogue and cooperation, based on mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation.

He also countered the narrative of a "foreign capital outflow" from China, emphasizing the rising investor confidence in its vast and dynamic market. He cited reports showing China's growing role as a key trading partner for over 150 countries and regions, with a 9.9% increase in newly established foreign-invested companies last year.

Xie highlighted the opportunities presented by China's high-level opening-up, as evidenced by the annual gatherings of the National People's Congress and the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference. He pointed to the Government Work Report's emphasis on stabilizing trade, attracting foreign investment, and advancing the orderly opening-up of sectors like the internet and culture.

"When economic globalization faces headwinds and countercurrents, China remains steadfast in expanding institutional, self-initiated and independent opening-up," Xie said.

A survey by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade found that about 90% of the more than 400 foreign companies polled in China during the third quarter rated the country's business environment as "satisfactory" or higher. Nearly 20% of those surveyed expressed plans to increase their investment in China, demonstrating continued confidence in the Chinese market.