Summary
China is trying to position itself as a dependable business partner while some U.S. allies reconsider their ties due to President Trump’s trade policies. Chinese President Xi Jinping has met with several leaders from countries that are traditional U.S. allies. China emphasizes cooperation and global trade as opposed to the trade wars initiated by the U.S.
Key Facts
- Chinese President Xi Jinping engaged in discussions with leaders from South Korea, Canada, Finland, and Ireland.
- The UK Prime Minister and German Chancellor have upcoming visits to China.
- Five of the visiting leaders represent countries that are U.S. treaty allies affected by tariffs imposed by the Trump administration.
- President Trump has applied tariffs on exports like steel and aluminium from allied countries.
- President Trump previously considered imposing more tariffs on European countries, including the UK and Finland, but he has since withdrawn that threat.
- China is promoting itself as a supporter of multilateralism, which means working with multiple countries to solve problems.
- Chinese Vice Premier Li Hefeng criticized the unilateral trade actions—actions done by one nation without the agreement of others—of the U.S.
- Recent visits by European leaders to China may suggest a shift in Europe’s approach to China, possibly improving relations.
