China and U.S. Reach New Consensus During Trump’s Visit

By AJP Posted : May 15, 2026, 14:28 Updated : May 15, 2026, 14:28
U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping shake hands during a visit to Tian Tan in Beijing. [Photo=Yonhap]
Chinese Foreign Ministry officials announced that U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping reached a "series of new consensuses" during their recent summit. However, they did not confirm Trump's claims of a "fantastic trade agreement" or any specific cooperation regarding Iran and the Hormuz Strait. Instead, China emphasized the importance of maintaining stable U.S.-China relations over concrete outcomes.

On May 15, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry stated that the two leaders engaged in deep discussions on significant issues affecting both nations and the world, resulting in a series of new agreements. This visit marks Trump's first trip to China as president in nine years, according to the ministry.

The Foreign Ministry noted that both leaders agreed to establish a "constructive strategic stability relationship" as a new standard for U.S.-China relations. This framework is expected to provide strategic guidance for the relationship over the next three years and beyond. The ministry added that it aims to promote stable, healthy, and sustainable development in bilateral relations, contributing to global peace, prosperity, and progress.

The schedule of the summit was also highlighted. The Foreign Ministry reported that Xi hosted a welcome ceremony and banquet for Trump the previous day, and the two leaders visited Tian Tan together after their discussions. The ministry assessed that their interactions enhanced mutual understanding and trust, benefiting practical cooperation and the welfare of both nations' citizens.

However, there is a noticeable difference in tone between the Chinese statement and the U.S. announcement. Following the meeting, Trump claimed they had reached a "fantastic trade agreement" and highlighted China's commitment to increasing purchases of U.S. agricultural products and cooperation on issues related to Iran and the Hormuz Strait. In contrast, the Chinese statement did not mention specifics regarding the trade agreement, U.S. agricultural purchases, imports of U.S. crude oil, or the reopening of the Hormuz Strait.

Instead, China emphasized communication on international and regional issues. The Foreign Ministry stated that the two leaders reached an important consensus on appropriately addressing each other's concerns and agreed to strengthen communication and coordination on international and regional matters. While this could encompass issues like the Iran conflict and the Hormuz Strait, it does not imply specific concessions or commitments from China on these matters.

Regarding the Taiwan issue, a firm stance was reiterated in a separate briefing. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang stated that Xi told Trump that "the Taiwan issue is the most important issue in U.S.-China relations." He warned that mishandling the situation could lead to conflict or confrontation, pushing U.S.-China relations into a very dangerous situation.



* This article has been translated by AI.

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