High-ranking officials from the United States and China convened in London on Monday. Their objective was to stabilize a precarious truce in an ongoing trade dispute that has significantly impacted the global economy.
The Chinese delegation, headed by Vice Premier He Lifeng, was scheduled to meet with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. The location of the meeting within London was not disclosed. The discussions were planned to span at least one day.
These talks followed previous negotiations held in Geneva the previous month, which had provided a temporary pause in the trade conflict. On May 12th, both nations declared a 90-day suspension of the majority of the tariffs, exceeding 100%, that they had imposed on each other. This escalation had raised concerns about a potential recession.
Since the initial agreement, tensions have resurfaced between the U.S. and China. Disputes have arisen over advanced semiconductors used in artificial intelligence, "rare earths" essential for various industries, and visas for Chinese students seeking education at American universities.
President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping engaged in a lengthy phone conversation last Thursday, aiming to restore a more positive relationship. Following the call, Trump announced on social media that trade talks would be held in London on Monday.
The United Kingdom's government confirmed its role in providing the venue and logistical support for the talks, while maintaining that it was not directly involved in the discussions. The British government issued a statement expressing its support for free trade and welcoming the talks, emphasizing that a trade war would not benefit anyone.
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