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US-China trade negotiations amid Trump-Xi Jinping Meeting

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U.S. and Chinese officials met in Paris on Monday, March 16th. The negotiations have been led by U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng, to finalize trade and agriculture proposals that could set the stage for a possible summit between President Donald Trump and President Xi Jinping later this month.

The talks focused on expanding Chinese purchases of U.S. farm goods, including soybeans, and creating new mechanisms to manage trade frictions. Reuters, citing sources familiar with the negotiations, said officials also discussed a possible “Board of Trade” and “Board of Investment” to address sector-specific issues.

The talks also addressed strategic supply chains. Reuters reported that U.S. officials raised access to Chinese critical minerals, including aerospace-grade yttrium, while urging Beijing to buy more Boeing aircraft and U.S. energy exports.

Still, broader geopolitical tensions threaten to overshadow the trade track. Trump said in an interview with the Financial Times, that he may delay the China trip unless Beijing helps efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz after conflict-related disruption sent fresh shockwaves through energy markets.

China has meanwhile kept a harder public line on U.S. trade pressure. In a statement carried by Xinhua News Agency, China’s commerce ministry said it had lodged representations with Washington over a new U.S. forced-labor-related trade probe and urged the United States to “correct its wrongdoings” and resolve disputes through dialogue and consultation. AP also reported that Beijing described the new U.S. investigation as damaging to global supply-chain stability.

The Paris talks appeared aimed more at stabilizing ties than achieving an immediate breakthrough. That suggests both sides are trying to preserve momentum in the relationship even as trade disputes and the Iran-linked energy crisis add new uncertainty.

Author: Mariam Simsive 

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China condemns new U.S. trade probes ahead of Paris talks

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On March 13, China sharply criticized a new U.S. trade investigation targeting alleged industrial overcapacity and forced labor, warning it could take countermeasures just days before senior officials from both countries are due to meet in Paris for another round of economic talks.

The dispute adds fresh strain to an already fragile thaw in U.S.-China relations, as Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng is expected to meet U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent in Paris on March 15-16. The talks are widely seen as groundwork for a planned visit by U.S. President Donald Trump to Beijing starting March 31, although Beijing has not publicly confirmed that trip.

Beijing’s criticism came after the United States launched Section 301 investigations into alleged industrial overcapacity and failures by foreign governments to prevent goods made with forced labor from entering supply chains. In a March 11 notice, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative said it would examine whether such practices are “unreasonable or discriminatory” and burden U.S. commerce, with China among the economies named in both probes.

China’s Commerce Ministry, said Washington had no right to make unilateral judgments about whether another country has “overcapacity,” and warned the U.S. action could seriously undermine the international economic and trade order. Beijing said it was assessing the measures and reserved the right to defend its interests.

China’s Foreign Ministry rejected the forced-labor allegations. At a regular press briefing, spokesperson Guo Jiakun said China opposes all forms of unilateral tariff measures and argued that tariff and trade wars serve neither side’s interests. He also called the forced-labor accusation “a lie concocted by the U.S.” and accused Washington of politicizing the issue.

Despite the rhetorical escalation, both sides are moving ahead with face-to-face talks in France, with China’s Commerce Ministry confirming He Lifeng’s visit from March 14 to 17. According to the South China Morning Post, the Paris talks are expected to cover key trade issues and could produce outcomes that pave the way for the next Trump-Xi meeting, underscoring that both governments continue to prepare for dialogue despite broader geopolitical tensions.

Whether the new Section 301 probes will harden positions in Paris or become another bargaining chip remains unclear. For now, they underscore that dialogue and confrontation continue in parallel in U.S.-China relations.

Author: Mariam Simsive

 

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U.S. Launches New Trade Investigation Against China

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On March 11, the United States launched a new trade investigation under Section 301 concerning China’s industrial overcapacity.

According to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, the aim of the investigation is to determine whether the policies and practices of China and 15 other economies related to “structural overcapacity and excess production capacity” are unreasonable or discriminatory and whether they harm U.S. commerce.

Washington said that consultations with the relevant governments will take place as part of the process. Public comments may be submitted until April 15, while hearings will begin on May 5.

The U.S. government made this decision at a time when manufacturers in China’s export hubs were reporting increased activity amid the temporary reduction of U.S. tariffs. In particular, according to Reuters, some factories were trying to make the most of the temporary relief, accelerating both product shipments and expansion plans.

According to U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, these investigations are part of the Trump administration’s broader economic policy aimed at strengthening domestic manufacturing capacity and curbing foreign overproduction.

At the same time, this step indicates that despite the temporary easing of tariffs, Washington continues to employ new mechanisms of pressure in its trade confrontation with China.

Author: Mariam Simsive

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Wang Yi Talks About International Stability Amid Deepening Cooperation with Russia

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On March 8, China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi outlined Beijing’s diplomatic priorities during a press conference on the sidelines of the annual session of the National People’s Congress, addressing global conflicts, relations with major powers, cooperation with Africa, and the protection of Chinese citizens abroad.

Addressing the escalating conflict involving Iran, Wang called for an immediate halt to military operations and warned against further escalation in the Middle East. He described the war as one that ’’should not have happened’’, emphasizing that armed confrontation would only deepen regional instability.

China urged respect for national sovereignty, opposition to the use of force, and non-interference in the internal affairs of regional countries as key principles for resolving the crisis. According to Wang, civilians must be protected and diplomacy should replace military confrontation.

During a press conference, Wang also highlighted that U.S.-China relations remain a top priority for Beijing. He said maintaining communication between the world’s two largest economies is essential to avoid misunderstandings and global instability. According to Wang, both sides must manage differences carefully and pursue dialogue to maintain constructive engagement.

He also noted that upcoming meetings between Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump could focus on stabilizing relations, preserving economic cooperation, and preventing further escalation in global conflicts. Wang framed the talks as ’’vital’’ for both bilateral relations and broader international stability.

Wang also reaffirmed the strength of relations between China and Russia, describing the bilateral partnership as stable despite global tensions. He said the China-Russia strategic partnership reflects a new model of international relations based on equality, respect and mutual benefit.

The two countries have maintained close diplomatic coordination, including a recent phone conversation between Wang and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov discussing international security developments and the situation surrounding Iran.

During the briefing, Wang emphasized that China’s partnership with African countries remains a key pillar of its foreign policy. China plans to deepen economic and cultural ties with the continent, including the introduction of zero tariffs on all tariff lines for African countries starting May 1.

Wang also stressed that protecting Chinese citizens and business interests overseas remains a central task of China’s diplomatic service. He said Beijing will continue improving mechanisms that ensure the safety and support of Chinese nationals working or traveling abroad.

’’Where there is the Chinese flag flying, there are Chinese diplomats on duty’’, Wang said, adding that the government remains committed to assisting citizens wherever they may face difficulties overseas.

By supporting negotiations in global conflicts, deepening cooperation with Russia, and expanding partnerships with African countries, Beijing seeks to increase its role in international politics. However, according to Reuters, China’s diplomatic position often represents a strategic balancing among global powers. Although Beijing emphasizes negotiations and economic cooperation, it simultaneously maintains close partnerships with countries such as Russia, which contributes to the emergence of new geopolitical dynamics in the international security environment.

Author: Mariam Simsive

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U.S. Sides With China and Russia on UN Nuclear Safety Resolution

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On March 5, during a meeting of the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the United States took the same position as China and Russia for the first time, declining to support a resolution that warned about nuclear safety risks resulting from attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.

The U.S. interim representative to the agency, Howard Solomon, stated that Washington recognizes the risks created by attacks on Ukraine’s energy system and supports measures aimed at ensuring the safety of nuclear power plants. However, he said the United States could not support a resolution that ’’would not help achieve peace between Ukraine and Russia’’.

China also did not support the resolution. On issues related to the Ukraine conflict, including nuclear safety, Beijing has traditionally emphasized the importance of resolving the conflict through diplomatic means and dialogue.

In particular, representatives of China’s Foreign Ministry stated several times in 2026 that Beijing supports all international efforts aimed at a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine crisis and believes that ’’dialogue and negotiations are the only way to resolve the crisis’’.

According to China’s official position, the safety of nuclear facilities is a shared responsibility of the international community, and actions that could increase nuclear risks or escalate the conflict must be avoided. Beijing also states that it is not a party to the conflict and seeks to maintain what it describes as an ’’objective and impartial position’’.

Thus, it appears that on international platforms, China seeks to maintain a neutral stance, supports negotiations and de-escalation, and rarely directly blames any party in its official statements.

Ultimately, the resolution was adopted by a majority vote. The issue remains especially significant in the context of the ongoing war in Ukraine, as attacks on the country’s energy infrastructure have repeatedly raised concerns about the safety of its nuclear power plants.

According to Reuters, the U.S. decision reflects the diplomatic complexities that currently shape both the convergence and divergence of major powers’ interests within international institutions.

Author: Mariam Simsive 

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EU to Strengthen Local Production, Reduce Reliance on China

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On March 4, the European Commission put forward a new industrial policy proposal aimed at boosting EU manufacturing and reducing dependency on Chinese imports. The plan is called the Industrial Accelerator Act (IAA).

Under this proposal, companies seeking to participate in public procurement or receive subsidies would be required to meet a minimum share of locally produced components. The rules would particularly apply to sectors critical to the green transition, including steel, aluminium, cement, wind turbines, and electric vehicles, areas where China is a major global supplier.

According to European Union officials, the initiative aims to strengthen EU industrial capacity, increase economic autonomy, and promote domestic production of green technologies.

The proposal has generated differing views among EU member states and business groups. Supporters argue that local content requirements are already in place in major economies such as the United States, China, Brazil, and India, and that similar measures help protect and develop domestic manufacturing. They contend that the EU should adopt a comparable approach to maintain competitiveness and strengthen strategic sectors.

Critics warn that strict rules could heighten trade tensions with partner countries and have a negative impact on the investment climate, including reducing opportunities to attract foreign capital.

The initiative is seen as a significant shift in EU trade policy, particularly in the context of economic relations with China. Currently, a substantial share of the EU’s green technologies depends on Chinese imports, giving the issue strategic importance.

Analysts say that the final content of the legislation and its practical implementation mechanisms will determine whether the EU can strengthen industrial resilience and economic autonomy without simultaneously intensifying trade tensions with Beijing.

The initiative will continue to be discussed between the European Parliament and member states, a process that will shape the future direction of the EU’s economic strategy amid global competition and geoeconomic shifts.

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China condemns strikes on Iran, calls for a ceasefire

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On March 1, China described the U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran as ’’unacceptable’’, warned of the risk of destabilisation in the Gulf region, and urged an immediate ceasefire and a resumption of negotiations.

In an official readout, Foreign Minister Wang Yi, speaking by phone with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, said it was unacceptable for the United States and Israel to attack Iran while U.S.-Iran talks were underway.

According to Wang, the strikes run counter to the fundamental principles of the UN Charter and signal a rejection of resolving the conflict through diplomatic means. He also criticised what he characterised as the targeted ’’elimination’’ of a sovereign state’s leader and said any actions aimed at facilitating regime change were unacceptable.

Ambassador and representative of China to the United Nations, Fu Cong, said Beijing was ’’deeply saddened’’ by civilian casualties, stressing that in armed conflict the ’’red line’’ of protecting civilians must not be crossed.

Fu Cong’s remarks came as Reuters reported that an emergency UN Security Council meeting was convened on February 28 at the request of China and Russia. Both sides called for an end to escalation and the activation of diplomatic mechanisms to address the crisis.

Chinese state media also reported Beijing’s position, emphasising China’s opposition to the use of force and urging the parties to pursue de-escalation through negotiations within the framework of international law.

China’s tough criticism is not only political, but significant economic considerations also shape it. If instability in the Gulf region becomes prolonged, China’s energy supply routes could quickly come under pressure: shipping and insurance costs would rise, driving up import bills. The Strait of Hormuz is one of Asia’s most important transit corridors. U.S. data indicate that most oil and liquefied natural gas passing through the strait is bound for Asian markets, with China among the largest importers.

Author: Mariam Simsive

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China accuses the Philippines of undermining stability in the South China Sea

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On February 27, China’s People’s Liberation Army said, they conducted a routine patrol in the South China Sea from February 23 to 26, accusing the Philippines of ‘’undermining peace and stability’’ in the region. Beijing argues that Manila is conducting joint military patrols together with ‘’countries outside the region’’.

In a statement, the PLA’s Southern Theatre Command said Chinese forces would ‘’resolutely safeguard’’ the country’s territorial sovereignty as well as its maritime rights and interests, while maintaining ‘’peace and stability’’ in the area. Chinese state media also reported the patrol, echoing Beijing’s criticism of the Philippines.

China’s remarks came as the Philippine armed forces said the navies of the Philippines, the United States and Japan held joint drills in the South China Sea this week. Manila described the exercise as aimed at strengthening military cooperation with its allies.

Beijing regularly criticizes the growing involvement of the United States and its partners in the South China Sea, claiming such cooperation increases the risk of military incidents and escalation.

Meanwhile, recent developments suggest tensions are not limited to official statements. A Reuters investigation reported military and intelligence-related movements along routes that pass near the Philippines or cross areas within its maritime zone, including strategic directions linked to Taiwan.

Particular attention remains on the Bashi Channel, a stretch of sea between Taiwan and the Philippines. The channel is considered a key route, as it is one of the main gateways toward the Pacific Ocean.

Author: Mariam Simsive

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Washington and Beijing: Stability Without Trust

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Attempts to preserve dialogue and deep strategic distrust are appearing at the same time in U.S.-China relations: Washington says it wants stable ties with Beijing, while Beijing says communication is continuing over a possible visit by the U.S. president.

At a February 24 hearing of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, U.S. Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg said the administration wants a stable relationship with China but does not trust Beijing. He said there was ’’not enough basis’’ for that trust.

Helberg’s remarks came as Washington and Beijing prepare for a high-level meeting.

On the Chinese side, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said at a February 24 briefing that ’’head-of-state diplomacy’’ plays an irreplaceable strategic role in China-U.S. relations, and that the two sides are continuing communication regarding a possible visit.

The White House has confirmed that Trump’s visit to China is scheduled for March 31 to April 2. It would be his first trip to China since returning to office.

Author: Mariam Simsive

Washington and Beijing: Stability Without Trust Read More »

Hong Kong Court Rejects Appeals in ’’Hong Kong 47’’ Case

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Hong Kong’s Court of Appeal on Monday, February 23, rejected the appeals of 12 pro-democracy activists convicted in the city’s largest national security case, leaving their lengthy prison sentences in force.

The case, widely known as the ’’Hong Kong 47’’ relates to the mass arrests of opposition figures in early 2021. Detained politicians and activists were accused of conspiracy to overthrow state power. Many were denied bail and remained in custody for extended periods, while the proceedings became one of the longest and most complex trials in Hong Kong’s history.

According to prosecutors, the defendants organized an unofficial primary election in 2020 to select pro-democracy candidates. Authorities argued their ultimate goal was to secure a parliamentary majority and paralyze the government by blocking the budget, ultimately forcing the resignation of the executive leadership.

The court ruled that these actions constituted an attempt to overthrow the state power under the national security law. As a result, in late 2024 most defendants were found guilty and sentenced to between four and ten years in prison, with only two acquitted out of 47. Around 20 of those convicted have already been released after completing their terms.

The appellate court’s latest decision effectively upholds the original verdicts and closes one of the main legal avenues for several prominent activists and former lawmakers.

Western governments and human rights organizations argue that the case criminalizes normal political activity, while Hong Kong and Chinese authorities maintain that the national security law was necessary to restore stability in the city.

Author: Mariam Simsive

Hong Kong Court Rejects Appeals in ’’Hong Kong 47’’ Case Read More »

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