Senior officials from China and the United States concluded high-level economic talks in Geneva this week, pledging to uphold the core values of multilateral trade amid global economic uncertainties. Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng met with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer on May 10-11, marking their first face-to-face dialogue on trade matters this year.
The discussions, described as 'candid, in-depth, and constructive' by both sides, resulted in a joint statement emphasizing shared commitments to stabilizing supply chains and addressing trade disputes through established international frameworks. Analysts view the meeting as a critical step toward rebuilding trust between the world's two largest economies.
Ying Pinguang, Dean of Shanghai University of International Business and Economics' School of Global Governance, noted: 'This dialogue demonstrates China's proactive approach to shaping global economic governance. By engaging constructively with the U.S., Beijing reaffirms its role as a responsible stakeholder in multilateral systems.'
The outcomes come as WTO members prepare for crucial negotiations on digital trade rules and agricultural subsidies reform. Business leaders across Asia have welcomed the progress, with many hoping reduced trade tensions could spur investment flows in technology and green energy sectors.
