• Source:JND

In a diplomatic engagement amid strained bilateral relations, Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump spoke by phone on Thursday, according to China’s state-run news agency Xinhua. The conversation, reportedly initiated at Trump’s request, came at a time when trade disputes and geopolitical tensions between the two global powers have reached a boiling point. The conversation came just a day after Trump publicly acknowledged the difficulty of striking a trade deal with Xi.

During a one-hour call, Chinese President Xi Jinping urged Trump to ease trade tensions and avoid provocative actions on Taiwan. However, Trump described the discussion as “very positive,” saying it primarily focused on trade and led to plans for further lower-level talks, while downplaying concerns over rare earth product complexities.

Here Are The Top Points: 

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1. Tariff Rollback Deal Fails to Resolve Core Issues

The tentative May 12 agreement between the US and China temporarily reduced tariffs; China dropped duties from 125 per cent to 10 per cent, and the US lowered them from 145 per cent to 30 per cent. 

2. Rare Earth Export Ban Emerges as Flashpoint

A major sticking point remains China's export ban on rare earths, magnets, and critical minerals crucial for US industries like defence and electronics. US officials say Beijing is leveraging these exports for political pressure.

3. Leaders Hold Direct Call Amid Rising Tensions

Trump and Xi held a rare hour-long call to defuse tensions. While Xi urged Trump to abandon aggressive trade steps and handle Taiwan prudently, Trump described the call as positive and announced new lower-level trade talks.

4. Accusations and Retaliation Undermine Progress

Tensions reignited as Trump accused China of breaching the Geneva understanding. China responded with similar allegations. Trump also ordered new export curbs on chip-design software, while Beijing threatened countermeasures.

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5. Trump and Xi Plan Mutual Visits

During their conversation, President Xi warmly invited the First Lady and President Trump to visit China, and Trump extended a reciprocal invitation. Both leaders, representing two great nations, expressed eagerness for these visits. The discussion primarily focused on trade.