On Thursday China’s Ministry of Commerce declared its willingness to maintain open dialogue with the United States on economic and trade matters. Officials announced that China has always supported continued engagement with America and called to end what it described as “unilateral” tariff actions and coercive pressure tactics.

China Urges End to US Tariffs and Pressures

During a press meeting in Beijing, the Ministry of Commerce stated that China remains committed to fair and respectful discussions with the US. The ministry pointed out that the ongoing trade tension began with the United States' decision to impose high tariffs. “The unilateral imposition of tariffs is entirely initiated by the United States, and whoever started the trouble should end it,” the ministry said. It encouraged the US to immediately stop extreme pressure and blackmail, and to resolve differences through equal dialogue based on mutual respect.

EU Strengthens Trade Ties Amid US Tariffs

As trade tensions continue between China and the US, the European Union is reportedly moving towards efforts to establish free trade agreements with other global regions. This move comes in response to the impact of high US tariffs, which have enabled Europe to explore other trade partnerships.

The Chinese Commerce Ministry commented on this transition and stated that both China and the EU strongly support global economic integration and a liberalised trade environment. “China and Europe are both advocates of economic globalisation and trade liberalisation and firm supporters of the World Trade Organisation,” the ministry said.

China-EU Relations

The ministry pointed out the China-Europe relations and appreciated the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and the European Union. He Yongqian, spokesperson for the Ministry of Commerce, stressed China’s commitment to deepening this partnership.

“China is willing to work together with Europe to strengthen dialogue and communication, expand mutual openness and deepen practical cooperation,” Yongqian said at the news conference.

Yongqian also said that China wishes to bring more stability and positive energy to the global economy through its steady relationship with Europe. “We aim to jointly uphold a multilateral trading system centred on the World Trade Organisation and based on rules, and to maintain stable and smooth global industrial and supply chains,” Yongqian noted.