Trump, Xi discuss Iran and trade ahead of Beijing visit
Trump, Xi discuss Iran and trade ahead of Beijing visit
Trump and Xi talk Iran, sanctions, and Taiwan in a wide-ranging call, signaling push and pause in US-China ties as April Beijing visit looms.
President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a wide-ranging phone call that touched on Iran, the state of U.S.–China relations, and a slate of upcoming summits that could enable a future meeting between the two leaders. Trump described the relationship with China as extremely good and said they both realize how important it is to keep it that way.
On Iran, tensions remain as Tehran faces international pressure over its nuclear programme and crackdowns on nationwide protests. The United States has signaled it could take further action and continues to press Iran to concede on its nuclear plans. The U.S. has also imposed a 25% tariff on imports from countries that do business with Iran, while China remains Iran’s biggest trading partner.
Beijing highlighted major summits it and Washington will host in the coming year, suggesting opportunities for a future meeting between the two leaders. The Chinese readout did not mention Trump’s expected April visit to Beijing.
Trade, Taiwan, and potential energy and agricultural deals were among the topics, with both sides emphasizing the importance of maintaining a stable, cooperative relationship. The conversation underscored a continued effort to navigate sanctions, security concerns, and regional tensions while keeping channels open for dialogue.
Analysts say the call signals a willingness to coordinate on sensitive issues without immediate escalation, even as sanctions and geopolitical frictions persist across multiple flashpoints.
