U.S. Senator Steve Daines met with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng, marking the first congressional visit to Beijing since Trump took office. Daines aims to address trade and fentanyl issues in coordination with the Trump administration. Despite rising tensions over tariffs, both parties acknowledge the need for dialogue and cooperation.

On Saturday, U.S. Senator Steve Daines, a noted supporter of President Donald Trump, engaged in a cordial meeting with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng amidst escalating tensions between the United States and China over trade tariffs and fentanyl trafficking. Daines is the first congressional member to visit Beijing since Trump assumed office in January, with an upcoming meeting scheduled with Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Sunday.

This trip marks Senator Daines’ sixth visit to China, having previously worked for Procter & Gamble in Guangzhou. He has met with Li Qiang in 2018 during Li’s tenure as Secretary of the Shanghai Party. Daines emphasized that this visit is crucial for addressing significant issues between the U.S. and China, advocating for constructive dialogue as a long-standing approach in his interactions with China.

Prior to his visit, Daines confirmed that he is in close coordination with the White House, intending to further President Trump’s America First agenda. His mission includes discussions with Chinese leaders about regulating fentanyl production and trade deficits affecting Montana’s agriculture sector, highlighting the need for fair market access for local farmers and ranchers.

The relationship between the U.S. and China has grown increasingly strained following the imposition of 20% tariffs by the U.S. on Chinese goods, to which China retaliated with 15% tariffs on U.S. agricultural products. U.S. officials have accused China of inadequate measures to curb the export of precursor chemicals for fentanyl, a potent opioid linked to numerous U.S. fatalities.

In a recent statement, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi criticized the U.S. for its actions, asserting that China will persist in its retaliatory stance against what it views as arbitrary tariffs from Washington. Beijing has also published a report outlining its initiatives to combat the illegal fentanyl trade, asserting that China remains dedicated to cooperation while opposing U.S. sanctions and undue pressure related to fentanyl issues.

Senator Daines arrived in Beijing on Thursday, engaging in dialogue with Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu about bilateral relations and shared concerns. His visit to China follows his prior engagements in Vietnam with top officials, reflecting his ongoing commitment to fostering international relations.

In summary, Senator Steve Daines’ visit to China highlights ongoing diplomatic attempts to address significant bilateral issues, particularly concerning trade and drug trafficking. His engagement with Chinese leaders reflects a commitment to maintaining dialogue despite heightened tensions. The backdrop of tariff disputes and fentanyl trade concerns underscores the complexities of U.S.-China relations, amid calls for cooperation and fair market access for American producers.

Original Source: www.usnews.com

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