Wang Yi Signals US-China Talks as Trump Visit Looms Amid Iran & Tariff Concerns

Beijing — China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi has emphasized the importance of continued dialogue with the United States, signaling preparations for a potential meeting between Presidents Xi Jinping and Donald Trump despite ongoing disagreements over the war in Iran and existing trade tariffs. The discussions come as both nations seek to manage a complex geopolitical landscape.

Wang Yi stated that 2026 represents a “big year” for China-US relations, with high-level exchanges already planned. He stressed the need for both sides to “make thorough preparations,” create a stable environment, and address existing risks to ensure productive talks. Avoiding conflict, he argued, is crucial for global stability. “Turning our backs on each other would only lead to mutual misperception and miscalculation,” Wang said.

President Trump is scheduled to visit China from March 31 to April 2, marking the first visit by a sitting US president since 2017. However, Beijing has not yet officially confirmed the dates, and some analysts have expressed doubts about the trip proceeding as planned, particularly given the recent escalation of conflict in the Middle East and other geopolitical factors.

Wang Yi reiterated China’s call for a ceasefire in the conflict in Iran, describing the war as “a war that should not have happened” and one that benefits no one. He has engaged in phone conversations with foreign ministers from Russia, Iran, and Israel, among others, as part of China’s diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation.

The potential summit also comes after a fragile truce was reached in October regarding tariffs, lowering duties on goods traded between the two countries to below 50% for one year. Previously, tariffs had exceeded 100% during periods of heightened tension. Wang Yi cautioned against erecting trade barriers and pursuing economic and technological decoupling, warning that such actions would be counterproductive. He stated that decoupling is “no different from using kindling to put out a fire,” and would ultimately be detrimental to both nations.

Responding to the idea of a “G2” leadership model between the US and China, Wang Yi emphasized the importance of multipolarity, suggesting that global leadership should not rest solely with two countries.