Trade Talks Resume in London Following Trump-Xi Call
US-China trade talks in London began Monday, June 9, as delegations aimed to stabilize a fragile economic truce. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a lengthy phone call last Thursday, which led to arranging the meeting.
The two global powers previously agreed to a 90-day pause on tariffs imposed in an escalating trade war that had raised fears of a worldwide recession.
🇨🇳🇺🇸 High-Level Delegations in Attendance
Vice Premier He Lifeng leads the Chinese side, while Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and others represent the U.S. team. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. The talks will last at least one full day at a confidential location the British government provides.
Tensions, Technology, and Tariffs
Tensions are still high even if the May 12 accord temporarily removed tariffs of 100% or more.One current controversy concerns access to advanced semiconductors used in the artificial intelligence and defense industries.
- The United States is concerned about China’s hegemony in rare earth minerals.
- Visa requirements still apply to Chinese students attending American universities.
- These issues might change the direction of the route or cause it to veer off course
Trump-Xi Call: A Reset?
The renewed engagement follows a phone conversation where Trump and Xi reportedly discussed trade barriers, technology security, and student exchanges. Trump later posted on social media that new trade negotiations would begin Monday in London, seeking to move past public clashes and economic uncertainty.
🇬🇧 UK’s Role: Host but Not Participant
The UK government confirmed it is only providing the venue and logistical support, emphasizing that the nation supports free trade and is not directly involved in negotiations.
“A trade war is in nobody’s interest,” said a UK government spokesperson.
Global Stakes Remain High
With supply chains strained and inflation still affecting both Western and Asian markets, the outcomes of these London talks will likely influence everything from car manufacturing and AI development to global student mobility and energy policies.
Source: AP News
