Islamabad: U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed optimism over ongoing trade negotiations with China, saying both nations are close to reaching a “very fair deal.”
Speaking at the White House, Trump stated that discussions with Beijing are moving in the right direction and that officials on both sides are cooperating constructively to resolve the long-standing trade dispute.
Productive Talks in Stockholm
According to reports, senior U.S. and Chinese negotiators met in Stockholm on Monday for over five hours of in-depth talks aimed at extending the trade truce and working toward a comprehensive agreement.
Trump said, “We’re moving along with China. We’re doing fine with China,” while addressing reporters. “I think it’s going to work out very well. We’re right in step. I think we’re going to have a very fair deal with China.”
The talks are part of a broader push to finalize an agreement before August 12, a deadline set to decide whether to continue or remove certain tariffs imposed during the trade war.
Background to the Trade Standoff
Washington and Beijing have been involved in a years-long trade conflict marked by tit-for-tat tariffs, export restrictions, and disagreements over technology transfers, intellectual property, and market access.
In May and June, both countries reached preliminary arrangements to de-escalate tensions, which included pausing new tariffs and easing restrictions on the supply of rare earth minerals — crucial for technology manufacturing.
Despite fluctuations in negotiations, both sides have shown willingness to continue dialogue, particularly given the high economic stakes involved.
Broader U.S. Trade Strategy
The Trump administration has also struck or advanced bilateral trade agreements with other major economies including the European Union, Japan, and the United Kingdom, as part of a global effort to reshape U.S. trade relationships.
Officials say the focus remains on ensuring that U.S. industries, particularly in manufacturing and tech, are protected from unfair practices while promoting fair and balanced trade.
A senior White House official noted that Trump sees the potential China deal as a cornerstone for stabilizing global trade markets and preventing another wave of economic disruptions.
