Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng has called on the United States to engage in sincere and equal dialogue to resolve ongoing trade disputes, emphasizing the need for cooperation and the fulfillment of existing commitments.
The remarks were made during the inaugural session of the China-U.S. economic and trade consultation mechanism held in London from Monday to Tuesday.
The two-day meeting was attended by high-ranking U.S. officials, including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer.
The forum is part of broader efforts to stabilize bilateral trade relations between the world’s two largest economies amid growing tensions over tariffs, market access, and technology transfers.
Speaking at the session, Vice Premier He Lifeng emphasized China’s readiness to work collaboratively but insisted that future progress must be built on mutual respect and the honoring of past agreements.
“China reiterates its position that the United States must engage in equal dialogue and demonstrate sincerity in both words and actions,” Lifeng stated. “We urge our U.S. counterparts to implement agreed-upon measures and safeguard the hard-won outcomes of previous discussions.”
He further stressed that cooperation based on fairness and mutual benefit is essential for maintaining the global economic order and for ensuring stable trade relations between both nations.
Lifeng also pointed out that constructive dialogue would not only benefit China and the U.S., but also bring broader stability to the international economic system.
The meeting, which was held against the backdrop of rising geopolitical tensions and increased trade protectionism, aimed to reestablish trust and open lines of communication following years of strained economic relations.
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Past negotiations between both sides have yielded mixed results, often complicated by shifting political priorities and trade sanctions.
Observers note that Lifeng’s statement underscores China’s growing insistence on accountability and predictability in international agreements. Analysts also say the renewed consultation mechanism could provide a path toward easing trade frictions if both sides commit to transparent dialogue and meaningful cooperation.
While the United States has not yet issued an official response to Lifeng’s remarks, the presence of senior U.S. economic officials at the meeting has been seen as a positive signal that both nations are willing to engage on key economic concerns.
The consultation mechanism is expected to continue with follow-up sessions in the coming months, focusing on specific areas such as tariffs, intellectual property rights, and market access.
The latest development comes amid warnings from global financial institutions that prolonged trade tensions between China and the U.S. could destabilize global supply chains and slow economic recovery, particularly in the wake of post-pandemic inflation and regional conflicts.
Vice Premier He Lifeng concluded by reaffirming China’s commitment to open markets, reform, and global cooperation.
He called on the United States to reciprocate by turning diplomatic intentions into tangible actions that promote long-term economic stability and peace.
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