US President-elect Donald Trump plans to visit China after assuming office to strengthen ties with Beijing, despite past campaign rhetoric about imposing higher tariffs on Chinese imports. According to The Wall Street Journal, Trump has expressed his desire to deepen relations with Chinese President Xi Jinping, signaling a potential shift in tone from his earlier hardline stance.
During his campaign, Trump criticized China’s trade practices and threatened new tariffs, but recent discussions suggest a diplomatic approach might take precedence. Trump has reportedly had preliminary talks about visiting India as well, coinciding with heightened engagement between New Delhi and Washington. Sources indicate that External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar initiated early discussions during a visit to Washington last December.
India is preparing to host the QUAD Summit this year, which includes leaders from Australia, Japan, and the United States. A visit by Trump to India could align with this event, possibly in April or later in the fall. Additionally, Prime Minister Narendra Modi might visit the White House this spring, furthering bilateral cooperation.
Ahead of Trump’s inauguration, he held a phone call with Xi Jinping, describing the conversation as “very good.” Topics discussed included trade, fentanyl, and TikTok, with Trump expressing optimism about resolving key issues. Xi Jinping, while not attending the inauguration, has deputed Vice President Han Zheng to represent China, marking a rare high-level attendance by Beijing.
Trump stated on Truth Social, “President Xi and I will do everything possible to make the world more peaceful and safe.” However, challenges remain, including tensions over tariffs and the supply of fentanyl precursors from China to Mexican cartels.
This potential diplomatic outreach comes at a pivotal moment for U.S.-China relations, signaling a blend of caution and cooperation in global affairs.
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