US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday (4 February) that he has completed an “excellent” and “thorough” telephone conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping, discussing a wide range of bilateral and global issues.
“It was a long and thorough call, where many important subjects were discussed, including Trade, Military, the April trip that I will be making to China (which I very much look forward to!), Taiwan, the War between Russia/Ukraine, the current situation with Iran…” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
Trade and agriculture on the agenda
During the call, Trump highlighted several trade-related discussions, including energy and agriculture:
“…the purchase of Oil and Gas by China from the United States, the consideration by China of the purchase of additional Agricultural products including lifting the Soybean count to 20 Million Tons for the current season (They have committed to 25 Million Tons for next season!)…”
Trump emphasized that both the US and China are focused on strengthening economic ties and ensuring ongoing trade cooperation.
Military and geopolitical issues discussed
Trump said he also spoke with Xi about key geopolitical matters:
“…including Trade, Military…Taiwan, the War between Russia/Ukraine, the current situation with Iran…”
He noted the importance of maintaining a strong and positive relationship with China amid global tensions.
Strong personal ties highlighted
Trump stressed the personal rapport he shares with Jinping, describing it as a cornerstone of US-China relations:
“The relationship with China, and my personal relationship with President Xi, is an extremely good one, and we both realize how important it is to keep it that way.”
He expressed optimism about achieving positive outcomes during his tenure:
“I believe that there will be many positive results achieved over the next three years of my Presidency having to do with President Xi, and the People’s Republic of China!”
US–China ties: Cooperation tested by tensions
The United States and China are exploring limited cooperation even as tensions persist over trade, security and geopolitics under Trump. Several US allies, including the UK, Canada and Germany, are also engaging Beijing, signalling a broader recalibration of relations.
Trade tensions ease, disputes remain
Trump has eased pressure in some areas by adjusting tariffs and relaxing restrictions on advanced chips and drones. The 4 February call between Trump and Jinping aimed to stabilise ties ahead of a possible April visit to Beijing, though major disagreements continue.
Taiwan flashpoint
Taiwan remains a key source of friction. The US approved a record $11.1 billion arms sale to Taiwan in December, angering Beijing, which claims Taiwan as its own territory.
Tariffs and soybeans
Trade remains contentious, with tariffs central to Trump’s manufacturing push. China has pledged to resume large purchases of US soybeans, offering relief to American farmers after a sharp slump in exports.
Critical minerals push
Washington is urging allies to form a critical minerals trade bloc to reduce dependence on China’s dominance of rare earths and key metals vital for technology, defence and clean energy.
