U.S. Senator Steve Daines met with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng, who criticized U.S. economic policies while advocating for dialogue. Daines aims to discuss trade issues, including fentanyl smuggling and trade imbalances. This meeting is part of broader efforts to ease tensions in U.S.-China relations during Trump’s trade war.
United States Senator Steve Daines met with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng in Beijing, where He criticized Washington’s economic policy and advocated for dialogue. Daines, a strong supporter of former President Donald Trump, and his wife received a gracious welcome from the Vice Premier, who emphasized that the two nations could foster a friendly relationship despite ongoing trade tensions.
Daines plans to discuss trade issues and the fentanyl smuggling crisis, with China being a major source of the raw materials for the drug. The senator, representing Montana and having extensive experience in China, was acknowledged by He for his understanding of the country.
He Lifeng stated, “China firmly opposes the politicisation, weaponisation and instrumentalisation of economic and trade issues, and is willing to engage in candid dialogue with the United States on the basis of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefits.” He also outlined the shared interests and potential cooperation between both nations.
During his visit, Daines is expected to meet with China’s Premier Li Qiang as well. He remarked that his visit comes at a crucial time for discussions on various issues between the United States and China. Daines has consistently promoted constructive dialogue during his previous trips to the region.
Amidst rising tensions due to Trump’s trade war, which includes tariffs imposed on major trading partners, Daines reiterated the call for China to halt the fentanyl precursors’ flow. In response to these tariffs, Beijing has implemented counter-tariffs on numerous American agricultural products. Daines expressed the hope for forthcoming high-level negotiations between the two nations to address their trade disparities and improve relations.
In recent statements, Trump indicated that Chinese President Xi Jinping may visit the US soon, although this has yet to be confirmed by Beijing.
In summary, Senator Steve Daines’ meeting with Vice Premier He Lifeng marks a significant effort to improve U.S.-China relations amidst ongoing trade tensions. The dialogue emphasizes cooperation and mutual interests, particularly around critical issues such as trade imbalances and drug trafficking. Both sides have indicated a willingness to engage in constructive discussions that could lead to a more favorable relationship going forward.
Original Source: www.kpvi.com
