President Donald Trump expressed on Wednesday that negotiations with China’s President Xi Jinping have proven to be “extremely hard,” amid ongoing discussions at the White House regarding a possible conversation between the two leaders this week, as trade tensions escalate.
In comments made on Friday, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent remarked that trade discussions appear to be “a bit stalled,” indicating that the involvement of both leaders may be necessary to advance talks.
“I have always liked President Xi of China, and I will continue to do so, but he is VERY TOUGH, AND EXTREMELY HARD TO MAKE A DEAL WITH!!!,” Trump stated on Truth Social, underlining the challenges faced in negotiations.
This remark came shortly after a senior White House official suggested to Finance Newso that a conversation between Trump and Xi could occur within the week.
During a meeting on Tuesday, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi conveyed to new U.S. Ambassador David Perdue that the series of recent “negative measures” taken by the Trump administration were based on “groundless reasons,” undermining China’s legitimate rights and interests, according to an official release.
Wang emphasized the importance for the U.S. to “meet China halfway” and to collaborate in restoring bilateral relations to a favorable trajectory, as noted in their discussions.
The meeting between Wang and Perdue was seen as a trust-building initiative, potentially easing any post-call embarrassment for Xi in case unexpected remarks or actions arose from Trump during their conversation, explained Neo Wang, lead economist and strategist at Evercore ISI.
In a post on X late Tuesday, Ambassador Perdue underscored to Wang the U.S. priorities surrounding trade, fentanyl, and illegal immigration, advocating for ongoing bilateral communication.
Amid these exchanges, both Washington and Beijing have accused one another of violating a trade agreement established on May 12 in Switzerland, which aimed at a 90-day suspension of most tariffs and a broad repeal of trade countermeasures introduced since early April.
Contrary to expectations, China has not substantially relaxed restrictions on rare earth exports. Additionally, Beijing has criticized the U.S. for continuing to pursue measures that limit China’s access to advanced technology. Last week, the Trump administration announced intentions to revoke visas for Chinese students.
Trump and Xi last engaged in conversation in January, just prior to Trump’s inauguration for his second term. Although Trump has recently expressed a desire to speak with Xi, analysts suggest that China may agree to such a discussion only if it can be ensured that no unforeseen issues will arise from the U.S. during their dialogue.
