BEIJING, China: Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the need for constructive relations between Beijing and Washington in his first message to U.S. president-elect Donald Trump, following Trump’s return to power.
Xi highlighted that past experiences showed cooperation brought mutual benefits, while confrontation harmed both nations. He called for improved dialogue and management of differences, underscoring the significance of a stable and sustainable China-U.S. relationship for both countries and the global community.
The backdrop of Xi’s remarks is one of strained ties, marked by disputes over trade and Taiwan’s status. Trump, known for his assertive trade policies, previously pledged to impose a steep 60 percent tariff on all Chinese imports, signaling the potential for increased economic friction. Analysts, such as Yun Sun from the Stimson Center, anticipate that Trump may enact these tariffs as part of his strategy to recalibrate trade imbalances, reports AFP.
#UPDATE Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday told US president-elect Donald Trump that their two countries must "get along" as well as "strengthen dialogue", state media reports.
"Xi Jinping pointed out that history has shown that China and the United States benefit from… pic.twitter.com/Ol93BcWIId
— AFP News Agency (@AFP) November 7, 2024
Xi’s message included principles of “mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation,” echoing recent Chinese hopes for peaceful U.S.-China relations. Vice President Han Zheng also extended congratulations to U.S. Vice President-elect JD Vance. The election’s outcome was closely monitored by Chinese policymakers amid economic challenges, with concerns focused on potential tariff impacts exceeding $500 billion in exports.
Analysts like Tao Wang from UBS forecast limited Chinese retaliation paired with internal policy measures to counteract economic disruptions.
Trump’s history of engaging Xi with tough rhetoric and dramatic policy moves adds complexity to how relations may evolve, especially with heightened stakes over Taiwan and global economic leadership.
