Xi Jinping and Donald Trump Hold Key Phone Talks on U.S.-China Relations

Chinese President Xi Jinping held a significant telephone conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday evening, addressing the current status and future direction of China-U.S. relations. During the call, Xi emphasized the importance of both leaders actively guiding the "giant ship" of bilateral ties, stating that effective leadership at the highest level is crucial for setting the right course and avoiding unnecessary disturbances or disruptions in diplomatic affairs.

Reflecting on recent developments, Xi highlighted the economic and trade meeting that took place in Geneva, which occurred at the suggestion of the United States. He characterized this gathering as an important step forward in resolving longstanding issues through open dialogue and consultation. According to Xi, the positive outcomes of these talks were welcomed not only by citizens of both nations but also by the broader international community. He underscored that the Geneva talks served as clear proof that dialogue and cooperation are the only viable choices for moving the relationship forward.

Xi reiterated his commitment to utilizing existing mechanisms for economic and trade consultations, urging both sides to strive for win-win results while respecting each other’s core concerns. "The Chinese side is sincere about this and, at the same time, has its principles," Xi stated. He pointed out that China has a track record of honoring its commitments and called on both parties to fully implement the agreements reached during the Geneva discussions.

Further, Xi noted that China has been "seriously and earnestly" executing the agreed measures and urged the United States to acknowledge China’s progress by removing unilateral negative actions taken against it. He advocated for broadening communication across various sectors—including foreign affairs, economics, military, and law enforcement—to build consensus, dispel misunderstandings, and solidify cooperative efforts.

Addressing regional stability, Xi warned about the risks associated with mishandling the Taiwan issue, stressing that the United States must approach the matter with prudence. He cautioned that allowing fringe separatist movements to dictate the narrative could push both nations toward confrontation and even conflict, an outcome he described as highly dangerous.

In response, President Trump expressed great respect for Xi and reaffirmed the importance of the U.S.-China relationship. He voiced support for China’s economic development and suggested that closer collaboration between Washington and Beijing could yield "a lot of great things." Trump also reiterated America’s adherence to the one-China policy and highlighted the mutual benefits of educational exchanges, particularly welcoming Chinese students to study in the United States.

Trump described the Geneva meeting as highly successful and committed the United States to working alongside China to faithfully implement the agreed framework. Both leaders concluded the call with Xi welcoming Trump to visit China again, an invitation Trump gratefully accepted. The two presidents agreed that their respective teams would continue implementing the Geneva agreement and convene another round of meetings as soon as possible, signaling ongoing momentum in managing one of the world’s most pivotal bilateral relationships.