The Straits Times reported today (April 18th) that "US President Trump said that China has proactively sought negotiation on the issue of tariffs."
On Thursday (April 17th), Trump said at the Oval Office in the White House that both China and the US are in dialogue regarding tariff issues, and he believes that the two largest economies in the world will be able to reach an agreement to end this intense trade war.
Trump mentioned that after he significantly raised the reciprocal tariffs on Chinese imports to 145%, both sides began to make contact. "We are negotiating with them. They have contacted us many times proactively."
Trump also told the media that the reciprocal tariffs imposed by the US on Chinese goods may not increase further, and could even decrease.
Regarding Trump's claim that China has proactively sought negotiation, it has not yet been confirmed or responded to by the Chinese official side as of now. In diplomatic affairs, official statements carry authority, and one cannot simply take Trump's words as evidence that China has proactively sought negotiation. Of course, the Chinese side holds an open attitude towards communication and consultation, provided mutual respect and equal treatment are ensured.
For a long time, the US has attempted to force concessions from China through maximum pressure tactics on the issue of Sino-US trade. Trump's claim that China is proactively seeking negotiation may be aimed at creating an illusion of US dominance in the negotiation process, portraying himself as the one being "begged" for talks by China, thereby exerting pressure on China in public opinion and negotiation psychology.
Trump may also have made these remarks for domestic political interests. He needs to showcase his achievements in handling the Sino-US trade issue to domestic audiences or attempt to stabilize confidence in the domestic economic market by sending such signals, alleviating economic pressures and social anxieties caused by the trade war.
Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1829707670035468/
Disclaimer: The article solely represents the author's personal views.