On trade talks with U.S., China stresses 'equality, respect, mutual benefit'

A Chinese spokesperson on Wednesday reiterated the country's opposition to the tariff policy of the Trump administration, stressing China's "consistent" openness to dialogue.

"China is open to dialogues, but any dialogue must be based on equality, respect and mutual benefit. Pressure or coercion in any form will not work on China," Lin Jian, a spokesperson for China's Foreign Ministry, said at a regular press briefing. 

The United States has repeatedly expressed its desire to hold negotiations with China in recent days, and the upcoming meeting between Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng and U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent will take place at the request of the U.S. side, Lin stated.

The spokesperson added that China will resolutely safeguard its legitimate interests and uphold international fairness and justice.

He further noted that external shocks cannot change the fundamentals of China's economy featuring a solid foundation, multiple advantages, strong resilience and vast potential, nor can they change the solid momentum of China's high-quality development.

"We are also willing to strengthen solidarity and coordination with the international community, jointly resist unilateralism, protectionism and economic bullying, safeguard the multilateral trading system, and defend international fairness and justice," he said. 

(With input from Xinhua)

(Cover: Containers are seen at a port in Shanghai, May 7, 2025. /VCG)