China and US Officials Hold "Constructive" Trade Talks Amid Persistent Challenges
In a significant move to foster stability in their complex economic relationship, Chinese Vice-Premier He Lifeng engaged in a "constructive and in-depth" video call with top US officials on Friday, December 6, 2025. The call involved US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, signaling ongoing efforts to navigate the intricate trade landscape between the world's two largest economies.
Addressing Lingering Issues
This high-level dialogue forms part of an established bilateral negotiation framework, initiated earlier this year, specifically designed to address pressing trade and economic issues. Despite a trade truce established in October, a myriad of practical challenges persist. These range from crucial agricultural commodities, such as soybeans, to high-tech components like computer chips, underscoring the ongoing need for diplomatic engagement.
A Path Towards Cooperation
According to China's official news agency, Xinhua, both sides reached a consensus to actively promote the stable progression of their bilateral trade and economic relationship. A key outcome of the discussion was a mutual agreement to "expand the list for cooperation and shorten the list of problems," signaling a shared desire to identify common ground and mitigate points of contention rather than exacerbate them.
This latest exchange follows a pivotal meeting held in late October between Chinese President Xi Jinping and then-US President Donald Trump in South Korea. That encounter had previously been touted as a breakthrough in de-escalating bilateral tensions. The continued diplomatic engagement, despite lingering obstacles, suggests a concerted effort from both Beijing and Washington to maintain open lines of communication and seek resolution to their trade disputes. While specific details on new agreements were not immediately available, the emphasis on expanding cooperation and narrowing disagreements offers a glimpse into the strategic direction both nations aim to pursue.