The shift in Trump’s rhetoric on trade was especially notable because he has long complained about the trade imbalance between China and the United States
President Donald Trump struck a markedly softer tone on touchy subjects like North Korea and trade with President Xi Jinping of China Thursday, and highlighted his « incredibly warm » feeling toward his counterpart.
During joint statements after talks in Beijing, Trump expressed optimism the U. S. and China will resolve the North Korea nuclear crisis. « I do believe there’s a solution to that, as you do, » Trump said.
Trump said he has « great respect » for Xi’s leadership on trade and noted the U. S. must change its policy. Trump blamed his predecessors in Washington for the trade deficit with China.
« It’s too bad that past administrations allowed it go get so far out of kilter, » Trump added. « But we’ll make it fair, and it will be tremendous for both of us. »
Trump concluded remarks by touting his « great chemistry » with Xi.
The Chinese leader said Beijing’s relationship with Washington « now stands at a new starting point » and vowed to « enhance communication and cooperation on the nuclear issues on the Korean Peninsula » and other issues.
« For China and the United States, cooperation is the only viable choice, and win-win cooperation can take us to a better future, » said the Chinese president.
Trump administration officials said during the closed talks, Trump pressed Xi on the North Korea nuclear issue. According to Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, Trump told Xi, « You’re a strong man, I’m sure you can solve this for me. »
Speaking in Beijing, Tillerson noted « there is no disagreement on North Korea » between the United States and China. The diplomat pointed out the Chinese have been clear and unequivocal over two days of talks that they will not accept a North Korea with nuclear weapons.
« There’s no space between both of our objectives, » said Tillerson. « We have our own views of the tactics, the timing and how far to go with pressure and that’s what we spend a lot of time exchanging views on. »
Tillerson also said the two men also had frank exchanges on human rights and maritime disputes in the South China Sea.
Later, Trump and Xi spoke to a meeting of business leaders. Trump said, « I thank President Xi for his recent efforts to restrict trade with North Korea and cut off banking ties. China can fix this problem easily and quickly.
