US Senator Steve Daines, a staunch supporter of President Donald Trump, met with China‘s economy tsar, Vice Premier He Lifeng, on Saturday. This marked the first visit by a US politician to Beijing since Trump’s return to the White House. The meeting, held at the Great Hall of the People, began on a lighthearted note, with Vice Premier He joking that the Montana Republican looked younger and more handsome than on television.
Tensions over tariffs and fentanyl
Relations between the United States and China have been strained due to recent US tariffs on Chinese goods. President Trump has accused Beijing of not doing enough to curb the flow of fentanyl into the United States. More tariffs targeting countries that tax US imports, potentially including China, are expected in early April.
During the meeting, Daines acknowledged China’s importance as a key consumer market. He noted that China is the second-largest source of business for Proctor & Gamble, where he once worked during his time in Guangzhou over three decades ago. “I’ve many old friends here in China,” Daines said, emphasising his commitment to constructive dialogue.
Meeting with Premier Li Qiang
Daines is set to meet with Premier Li Qiang on Sunday during the China Development Forum in Beijing, where dozens of foreign executives, including US business representatives, are expected to attend. Reflecting on their past meeting in 2018, Daines expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming discussion.
Trade deficits
Ahead of his visit, Daines told Fox News he would press Chinese leaders to stem the flow of fentanyl chemicals to Mexico. “They can do a whole lot more to shut down the flow of these chemicals,” he stated. He also planned to address the U.S.-China trade deficit and advocate for fairer trade practices.
Vice Premier He Lifeng expressed willingness for candid dialogue with the US based on mutual respect. “China and the United States have extensive common interests and broad space for cooperation,” he said, emphasising the potential for mutual success and global benefits.
The US embassy in China confirmed Daines had reiterated President Trump’s demand to halt fentanyl precursor flows and expressed hope for future high-level US-China talks.