Trump and Xi Jinping Hold Phone Call in Bid to Ease US-China Tensions

14 hours ago 3

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - In a highly anticipated diplomatic move, U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping spoke on the phone for about an hour and a half on Thursday. This direct communication occurred amid escalating trade tensions between the two largest world economies, which have been ongoing for several months.

Chinese state media Xinhua, as cited by Al Jazeera, reported that the phone call was made at the U.S.'s request, indicating Washington's seriousness in seeking a diplomatic solution to the trade deadlock that has impacted the economies of both countries.

Through his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump expressed optimism about the outcome of the conversation: "I just concluded a very good phone call with President Xi, of China, discussing some of the intricacies of our recently made, and agreed to, Trade Deal. The call lasted approximately one and a half hours, and resulted in a very positive conclusion for both Countries."

One significant achievement of this conversation is the clarification regarding the issue of rare earth minerals, which has long been one of the most sensitive points in the trade relationship between the two countries. Trump emphasized, "There should no longer be any questions respecting the complexity of Rare Earth products."

This statement indicates the mutual understanding regarding the U.S.'s access to strategically important minerals for high-tech industries, including electronics and defense.

The personal aspect of diplomacy was also strengthened when Xi Jinping officially invited Trump and the First Lady to visit China. Trump responded positively to the invitation, indicating the possibility of a future face-to-face meeting that could deepen bilateral dialogue.

Interestingly, Trump noted that the discussion was almost entirely focused on trade issues, without touching on other sensitive issues such as the Russia-Ukraine war or the Iran nuclear program.

From the Chinese side, Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of a mutually beneficial approach in bilateral relations. According to Chinese state television, Xi stated that "dialogue and cooperation are the only right choice for both," and the need to respect each other's interests.

Specifically, Xi also emphasized that the United States should handle the Taiwan issue "very carefully," underscoring the sensitivity of this issue in the relationship between the two countries.

This conversation took place amid the trade war, in the context of the 90-day agreement reached on May 12 to lower import tariffs. However, tensions remain high due to the various actions taken by both sides following the agreement.

The Trump administration has taken tough actions against more than 277,000 Chinese students studying at American universities in the 2023-2024 academic year. The threat of revoking student visas for those deemed to be associated with the Chinese Communist Party or posing a national security threat has created new tensions.

Critics have deemed Trump's approach to the trade war as counterproductive. They accused Trump of "causing a major disruption in the global economy and backing down when China or the European Union retaliated strongly."

Beijing stated that Washington's actions against China's technology sector and Chinese students "seriously violated" the consensus in the temporary trade ceasefire in May.

Trade tensions between Washington and Beijing are not just a bilateral issue but have systemic impacts on the global economy. As the two largest world economies, both countries' trade policies affect global supply chains, commodity prices, and international financial market stability.

Although still in its early stages, this telephone conversation provides a positive signal that both leaders realize the importance of direct dialogue in managing differences and preventing escalation that could harm all parties.

Trump revealed that "our respective teams will soon meet at a designated location," indicating concrete plans to continue the dialogue at a technical level. This gives hope that the positive momentum from the phone conversation can be translated into more substantive negotiations.

The success of this telephone diplomacy will greatly depend on the ability of both countries to implement the agreements reached, especially in managing sensitive issues such as market access, technology transfer, and broader geopolitical tensions.

Editor's Choice: Trump Announces U.S. Travel Ban on 12 Countries, Restricts Entry of Seven

Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News

Kluivert Praises Ricky Kambuaya's "Fantastic Game" in Indonesia's Win Over China

1 jam lalu

Kluivert Praises Ricky Kambuaya's "Fantastic Game" in Indonesia's Win Over China

Ricky Kambuaya impressed in 83 minutes, winning a penalty and consistently troubling China's defense with his skillful ball control.

China Launches New 'ASEAN Visa' for Southeast Asian Nations and Timor-Leste

4 jam lalu

China Launches New 'ASEAN Visa' for Southeast Asian Nations and Timor-Leste

The visa allows multiple entries over five years, with each visit permitting a stay of up to 180 days.

Erick Thohir Credits Prabowo's Presence for Indonesia's Win Over China: "He Brought Luck"

5 jam lalu

Erick Thohir Credits Prabowo's Presence for Indonesia's Win Over China: "He Brought Luck"

Erick Thohir said the victory of the Indonesian national team against China was thanks to the prayers of the Indonesian people. He also mentioned that Prabowo brought luck to the national team.

Branko Ivankovic Wishes Indonesia Success as China Bows Out of World Cup Qualifiers

7 jam lalu