Chinese Ambassador to US Calls for Rational Dialogue on Tariffs

Afghan Voice Agency (AVA) - International Service: The Chinese Embassy in the US opened its doors to the public to mark the anniversary of its opening in Washington. The event, which was held with the aim of improving the understanding of Chinese culture among the American people, also introduced the culture of China’s Gansu Province.

 

In his speech, Xie Feng referred to this cultural event and called Gansu Province, located at the heart of the ancient Silk Road, a symbol of openness and tolerance, and expressed hope that China-US relations would move in the same direction.

 

Emphasizing the profitability of global trade for the United States over many years and the country's benefit from high-quality and cheap goods, he added: "Trade is not a zero-sum game. Creating barriers only disrupts the flow of goods, economic growth and supply chains."

 

Noting that the revenue of American companies from the Chinese market in 2022 was more than $400 billion higher than the revenue of Chinese companies in the United States, the Chinese ambassador noted: "Increasing tariffs is not in anyone's interest and will only disrupt trade, increase costs, destabilize financial markets and slow global growth."

 

Xie Feng reiterated Beijing's positions and clarified: "China did not initiate the trade war. We do not want conflict, but we are not afraid of threats either. China wants to move towards cooperation, mutual acceptance and constructive dialogue between the two countries."

 

The latest update on the Chinese embassy website about Xie Feng’s activities was on April 19, the Traditional Chinese Medicine Culture Day. At that event, he also likened a trade war to blocking vital arteries in the human body and warned that “you cannot force others to take medicine for their illness.” He also stressed that China’s opposition to a trade war is to safeguard national interests and national dignity, and that it will resolutely respond if such a war is imposed.

 

The remarks come as China’s Ministry of Commerce said on Friday (May 2) that US officials have repeatedly requested talks with China on the tariff issue and have sent messages to this effect through various channels. China is currently reviewing and evaluating the proposals.