Geneva (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Senior officials from the U.S. and China convened once more on Sunday in Geneva to continue weekend discussions focused on easing the trade war that poses a significant risk to the global economy, Reuters reported.
The trade dispute, along with Trump’s recent decision to impose tariffs on numerous other countries, has disrupted supply chains, unsettled financial markets, and heightened fears of a steep global downturn.
What progress was made during the Geneva trade talks?
A day earlier, On Saturday, Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng held an eight-hour meeting with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. This was their first in-person discussion since the two major economies instituted tariffs exceeding 100% on each other’s products.
Bessent, Greer, and He convened in Geneva following weeks of escalating tensions fueled by Trump’s tariff offensive that began in February, which prompted retaliation from Beijing and caused almost $600 billion in annual bilateral trade to come to a near halt.
As reported by Reuters, neither party provided comments on Saturday regarding the discussions’ substance or indicated specific progress in lowering significant trade barriers during the meetings at the Swiss ambassador’s residence at the U.N.
What role did Trump play in recent negotiations?
However, U.S. President Donald Trump later expressed optimism about the discussions, stating that both parties had engaged in negotiations. “a total reset … in a friendly, but constructive, manner.”
“A very good meeting today with China in Switzerland. Many things discussed, much agreed to,”
Trump posted on his Truth Social platform.
Trump also said:
“We want to see, for the good of both China and the U.S., an opening up of China to American business. GREAT PROGRESS MADE!!!”
He did not elaborate on the progress.
