White House: US seeks stronger economic ties with China after Trump-Xi call

The United States is committed to maintaining robust economic relations with China and ensuring continued access to its markets, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said on June 5, following a high-profile call between US President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping.

Speaking after the June 5 phone conversation between the two leaders, Leavitt said the dialogue was conducted in a “positive and constructive atmosphere.” She noted that Trump “has always had a respectful relationship with the Chinese president” and emphasised mutual economic interests between the two nations, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

Leavitt pointed out that Trump has always had a respectful relationship with the Chinese president. She also stressed that China needs the US and their markets, the interest that Washington reciprocates. 

Leavitt added that the two sides agreed to continue engaging in talks focused on economic issues, underscoring what she described as “mutual strategic interests.”

The 90-minute call marked the first direct communication between Trump and Xi in months, amid lingering trade tensions and a period of diplomatic quiet. According to Trump, the conversation centered almost exclusively on trade. In a post on Truth Social, he called it a “very good” discussion and said both leaders had extended invitations to visit each other’s countries.

Trump expressed optimism that ongoing trade disputes could be resolved, writing that the call “resulted in a very positive conclusion for both countries.” He indicated that follow-up meetings with his economic team would be arranged soon.

While the US statement remained focused on economic ties, China’s Foreign Ministry emphasised the need for equality and mutual respect. Xi urged Washington to “remove the negative measures taken against China” and said both sides should “seek win-win results,” according to Beijing’s readout.

“Recalibrating the direction of the giant ship of China-US relations requires us to take the helm and set the right course,” Xi was quoted as saying.

The renewed dialogue comes as the US pushes to accelerate trade negotiations globally. The White House recently sent a letter to partners reminding them that Trump’s 90-day pause on sweeping “reciprocal” tariffs is due to expire in early July. While advisers have promised new trade agreements “in the not-too-distant future,” only one has been formally announced—an accord with the United Kingdom.

By Sabina Mammadli