Former President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a phone conversation on Friday, just days before Trump’s anticipated return to the White House. Both leaders emphasized a commitment to fostering better relations between their nations despite ongoing challenges.
Xi expressed optimism about the dialogue, stating his hope for a “good start” to their renewed relationship. Trump reciprocated, saying, “It is my expectation that we will solve many problems together, and starting immediately.”
During his election campaign, Trump threatened significant tariffs on China and other trading partners. However, he has also signaled a willingness to engage in discussions with Xi, a leader he has openly praised in the past. One contentious issue remains the proposed 10% tariff on Chinese products, which Trump links to allegations of China’s role in enabling the flow of fentanyl precursors into Mexico and the United States. The synthetic opioid has been linked to 70,000 overdose deaths annually in the U.S.
“We discussed balancing trade, fentanyl, TikTok, and many other subjects,” Trump shared on his social media platform following the call. “President Xi and I will do everything possible to make the world more peaceful and safe!”
TikTok Controversy and National Security Concerns
The U.S. Congress passed a law last year requiring ByteDance, TikTok’s Chinese parent company, to divest from the platform or shut it down by Sunday, citing national security risks. The app’s popularity has fueled fears in Washington that it could be used for espionage or propaganda by the Chinese government. Despite these concerns, Trump has repeatedly promised during his campaign to save TikTok and is reportedly exploring ways to delay its ban.
Rising Tensions and Trump’s Confrontational Approach
Trump’s return to the Oval Office has sparked fears of escalating tensions between the two largest economies in the world. Beijing recently criticized comments by Marco Rubio, Trump’s nominee for secretary of state, who referred to China as “the most dangerous near-peer adversary” the U.S. has faced.
“The U.S. must establish a correct understanding of China, cease unwarranted attacks, and stop smear campaigns against China,” Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated in response.
In December, Xi indicated China’s willingness to engage in dialogue and “expand cooperation” with the U.S., cautioning that a trade war would yield “no winners.” Meanwhile, the outgoing Biden administration sought to ease tensions and acknowledged some progress by China on addressing the fentanyl crisis.
Biden’s Farewell Message
In his farewell address, President Joe Biden reassured Americans of the United States’ global leadership. “China will never surpass the United States, which will remain the world’s dominant superpower,” he declared. Reflecting on his tenure, Biden emphasized that despite the complexity of U.S.-China relations, his administration managed to avoid direct conflict between the two nations.
As Trump prepares to assume office, the world watches closely to see whether his administration will navigate the challenges ahead and deliver on promises of improved ties with China.
