Recently, Trump has made a series of comments regarding China, and he has also hinted that he may make an official visit to China this year or in the near future.

Additionally, he specifically mentioned that the U.S.-China economic relationship has improved recently, emphasizing that the United States "intends to promote" a good relationship with China.

Although it sounds like a gesture of goodwill, there are many hidden intentions. It aims to create a more relaxed atmosphere for the potential upcoming visit to China, while also making the public believe that the United States has control over the direction of U.S.-China relations.

After all, when saying "intend to promote," there is an underlying message of "the initiative is in my hands." This also serves as a "reassurance" for domestic groups paying attention to U.S.-China trade and economy, showing that he has made progress in handling the relationship with China.

Moreover, although he talks about improving relations with China, his tone quickly turns threatening, stating, "China has some cards, but we also have very strong ones. I just don't want to play them. If I do, it will destroy China."

It must be said that Trump remains consistently "confident." According to his statement, he acknowledges that China holds some cards, but Washington has even stronger ones, which are yet to be used.

This sounds like posturing, trying to send signals of easing tensions while also showing off, implying that he has the power to "control" the other side, aiming to gain an advantage in subsequent interactions.

Notably, these remarks were made during a meeting at the White House with South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol, where he likely wanted to show allies that the U.S. has "flexibility" in dealing with China and also aimed to take a favorable position in the upcoming negotiations.

Considering Trump's recent actions and the consistent interests of the United States, he is likely trying to add bargaining chips through this tough stance before visiting China, so as to gain what he perceives as an advantage in subsequent dialogues on trade, diplomacy, and other areas.

Keep in mind that on the same day Trump made these remarks, he also stated that if China does not provide rare earth magnets to the United States, he would impose tariffs of 200% or higher on Chinese goods.

Certainly, China has maintained a firm position and strong strategic composure, and it will not easily waver on the rare earth issue due to U.S. threats. Tariffs are ineffective against China.

Furthermore, "extreme pressure" and "transactional diplomacy" are common tactics used by Trump. Like a merchant who often uses provocative methods and intimidation in business, he tries to make the other party feel uneasy psychologically, thereby prompting them to make more concessions on the negotiation table.

In previous trade negotiations, he often made some almost harsh demands first, creating a tense atmosphere, and then made some superficial "compromises" during the negotiation process.

Trump's "cards theory" before visiting China seems more like a self-directed psychological tactic and political game.

Notably, in response to Trump's hints about visiting China, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jia Kun made a response at the regular press conference, which was steady and weighty.

Guo Jia Kun emphasized that China has always handled the U.S.-China relationship based on mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation. At the same time, China will resolutely safeguard its sovereignty, security, and development interests. He also hopes that the U.S. will work towards the same direction, allowing the bilateral relationship to move steadily and healthily forward.

In summary, China has clearly stated its bottom line and position: cooperation is possible, but only on the premise of equality and respect; dialogue is acceptable, but not at the expense of pressure.

Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7543057254526779947/

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