“Trump-Xi meeting still on” says US Secy Bessent; China says “We will fight if we must…doors open if US wants to talk”
China has called on the United States to “correct its wrongdoings” and approach trade discussions with sincerity, following a round of working-level talks aimed at de-escalating tensions between the two nations, reports 24brussels.
The statement, issued by the Chinese Ministry of Commerce on October 14, reflects growing unease over the ongoing trade conflict that has pitted the world’s two largest economies against each other. A ministry spokesperson criticized the US for attempting to engage in dialogue while simultaneously threatening new restrictive measures, stating, “The US side cannot seek talks on one hand while threatening to introduce new restrictive measures on the other. This is not the right way to get along with China.”
This diplomatic exchange follows comments made by US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, who accused China of attempting to dominate global supply chains by requiring all exports involving rare earths processed or mined in China to receive approval from the Chinese government. Greer asserted that, “President Trump is responding forcefully and appropriately to safeguard America’s economic and national security.”
In response to the escalating tensions, a spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Commerce reaffirmed the nation’s willingness to engage in dialogue, stating, “We will fight if we must fight. Our doors are open if the US wants to talk.” This declaration comes in the wake of President Trump’s announcement that he would impose a 100 percent tariff on Chinese goods and additional measures starting November 1. Trump’s frustration reportedly stems from China’s decision to impose tighter export controls on critical rare earth minerals vital for advanced technology.
Meanwhile, Trump took to his Truth Social platform to downplay concerns regarding China, expressing optimism about the ongoing situation. He stated, “Don’t worry about China, it will all be fine! Highly respected President Xi just had a bad moment. He doesn’t want Depression for his country, and neither do I. The USA wants to help China, not hurt it!”
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent emphasized the importance of maintaining communication, noting a significant reduction in tensions in recent weeks. He confirmed that the anticipated meeting between President Trump and Chinese Communist Party Chairman Xi Jinping is still set to proceed at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum in South Korea later this month. “I believe that meeting will still be on,” Bessent stated, indicating ongoing diplomatic efforts to stabilize relations between Washington and Beijing.