China Enjoys US Fast Food During Trade Negotiations in London
Chinese negotiators enjoy a fast food feast during US trade talks in London. The American team goes for Pizza Express, and discussions revolve around unresolved tariffs and trade issues. No agreement reached, but officials describe the meetings as productive.
In a rather peculiar twist during the ongoing trade discussions, Chinese negotiators wrapped up their second day of talks with a feast of American fast food. Reportedly, the famished delegation placed an order for McDonald’s, Burger King, and KFC shortly after 7:30 p.m. local time, according to sources. This gastronomic choice sparked chatter among diplomats and observers, with one insider exclaiming that this seemed like “a total cultural victory” for the United States, even though there was no immediate agreement concerning the ongoing tariff disputes.
Meanwhile, Team Trump, which includes notable figures such as Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, opted for a takeout meal as well, choosing Pizza Express—a notable British chain known for its handmade pizzas. Sources highlighted the stark contrast between the culinary choices of the two delegations, noting the implications it could have on public perception.
The meeting took place at Lancaster House, a historic mansion near Buckingham Palace, where the two superpowers aimed to continue discussions initiated in Geneva last month. Here, the two countries agreed to suspend most of their harsh tariffs for a 90-day period amid their escalating trade war. However, despite the hopeful back-and-forth, the culinary decisions of the Chinese officials have stirred questions about the viability of any potential agreement.
Leading the Chinese delegation was Vice Premier He Lifeng, who might find that their choice of fast food was, in some way, a blow to British culinary pride—historically criticized by foreign diplomats. Insiders remained tight-lipped about whether such food choices could actually boost the chances for a successful trade agreement with the U.S.
As for sentiments shared regarding the talks, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent described the discussions as “productive” while he prepared to return to Washington and share insights with Congress. President Trump, confident in the proceedings, remarked that things are progressing well with China, stating, “China’s not easy,” during a press conference on Monday.
Trump’s affinity for fast food has been well documented, and he’s even famously served meals at a McDonald’s drive-thru during his campaign in Pennsylvania. According to a book titled “Let Trump Be Trump, the Inside Story of His Rise to the Presidency,” his go-to order at the fast-food chain includes two Big Macs, two Filet-o-Fish sandwiches, and a chocolate milkshake.
Aside from the fast food drama, looming issues on the table include tariffs on crucial semiconductors for artificial intelligence, visa regulations for Chinese students in the U.S., and access to rare earth minerals that are essential for various industries. The backdrop of these negotiations is Trump’s threat of reciprocal tariffs aimed at countries he perceives as treating the U.S. unfairly.
The unique dining choices of both the American and Chinese negotiators at the trade talks in London have added an unexpected layer to the discussions. While the Chinese delegation indulged in American fast food, Team Trump opted for British cuisine. Despite the lighter moments, significant trade issues remain unresolved, and participants are hopeful that productive talks will yield progress on tariffs and other economic matters. As the meetings continue, the focus will be on whether culinary preferences will have any impact on future trade relations between the two nations.
Original Source: nypost.com
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