China has called on the United States to engage in trade talks based on “equality, respect, and mutual benefit” as high-level negotiations are set to take place this weekend in Switzerland. During a press briefing on Wednesday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian confirmed that the meeting between Vice-Premier He Lifeng and senior US officials was “arranged at the request of the US side.”

"No external shocks can change the fundamentals of China's economy, which has a stable foundation, many advantages, strong resilience, and great potential," Lin said in response to recent claims from Washington that China is suffering as a result of hefty tariffs. Lin reaffirmed China's condemnation of Washington for starting the trade war in a media appearance on Tuesday. “The fact is, this tariff war is launched by the US,” he said. “China’s position is consistent and clear: We will fight, if fight we must. Our doors are open, if the US wants to talk.” 

Lin warned against continued pressure tactics. “There is no winner in a trade war or a tariff war,” Lin said. “If a negotiated solution is truly what the US wants, it should stop threatening and exerting pressure, and seek dialogue with China based on equality, respect and mutual benefit.” US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and trade representative Jamieson Greer will represent the Donald Trump-led US administration in talks with Chinese Vice-Premier He Lifeng in Geneva. The American officials are also expected to meet Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter during their visit. 

However, the specific date and details for these high-level trade discussions have not yet been announced. The discussions come as worries grow in the US about the increasing costs of consumer goods, which are the result of extended tariff measures.