Chinese Premier Li Qiang met with U.S. Senator Steve Daines, advocating for dialogue over confrontation amidst rising tensions over trade and fentanyl. Daines, the first congressional member to visit Beijing since Trump took office, emphasized the importance of cooperative engagement. Li reiterated the need for fair competition and the mutual benefits of cooperation, especially concerning trade tariffs and the opioid crisis.

In a significant meeting on Sunday, Chinese Premier Li Qiang emphasized the importance of dialogue over confrontation with the United States during discussions with Senator Steve Daines, a prominent supporter of President Donald Trump. The bilateral relationship has been marked by escalating tensions, particularly regarding trade tariffs and the illegal fentanyl trade. Li urged a cooperative approach, stating that effective communication is essential between the two nations.

Senator Daines made history as the first congressional member to visit Beijing since President Trump assumed office in January. Accompanied by CEOs from prominent American companies such as FedEx, Boeing, Qualcomm, and Pfizer, Daines expressed a keen interest in fostering dialogue. Li remarked on the necessity for mutual benefits, insisting that both nations stand to gain from cooperation rather than confrontation.

Li reiterated that U.S.-China relations have reached a critical juncture, echoing sentiments shared by President Xi Jinping during his January conversation with Trump. He highlighted that history indicates cooperation serves both countries best and urged for a shift from competitive posturing to collaborative engagement.

In past administrations, Daines has played a crucial role in addressing tariff concerns. Ahead of his Beijing visit, he coordinated closely with the White House and vowed to promote Trump’s America First agenda. Daines has urged China to halt the flow of fentanyl precursors during talks with Chinese officials, which may influence future negotiations between the two powers.

Recent months have seen deteriorating relations, with the U.S. imposing significant tariffs on Chinese imports, leading to retaliatory measures from Beijing. Trump is poised to introduce counter tariffs to align U.S. duties with those imposed by other countries. The unfolding trade variables underscore the urgency for both nations to find common ground.

At the China Development Forum, Li acknowledged the potential for external shocks to the Chinese economy and indicated that new policies might be introduced to ensure stability. He called for a more open market approach and urged entrepreneurs to play a proactive role in sustaining global economic integration.

Li emphasized that although competition is welcomed, it should be on a fair basis according to internationally recognized rules, resisting the temptation for zero-sum games that could lead to detrimental economic practices. Meanwhile, Washington has criticized Beijing for insufficient actions against fentanyl precursor exports, to which China has responded by outlining their efforts and commitment to cooperation while opposing undue pressure from the U.S.

In summary, the meeting between Chinese Premier Li Qiang and U.S. Senator Steve Daines underscores the pressing need for dialogue between China and the United States amidst rising tensions that stem from trade and fentanyl issues. Both nations have acknowledged the mutual benefits of cooperation, and Li’s call for fair competition and market openness highlights potential pathways for improved relations. As the U.S. contemplates new tariffs, the dialogue on trade and fentanyl will remain pivotal in shaping future interactions between the two largest economies.

Original Source: www.usnews.com

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