China again refutes talking to U.S. on tariffs

China and the U.S. are not having any consultation or negotiation on tariffs, said a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson on Friday when asked to confirm if the two sides are engaging or engaged in trade talks.

"The U.S. should stop creating confusion," said spokesperson Guo Jiakun during a regular press briefing. 

On Thursday, a Chinese commerce ministry spokesperson also denied any economic and trade negotiations between the two largest economies. Any claims of progress in economic and trade talks between the two countries are groundless and lack factual basis, said spokesperson He Yadong.

China's stance remains consistent as it maintains an open attitude toward consultation and dialogue. However, any form of consultations and negotiations must be conducted in an equal manner on the basis of mutual respect, He said.

"We Chinese are not troublemakers, but we will not flinch when trouble comes our way. Intimidation, threat and blackmail are not the right way to engage with China."