China’s senior leadership has reiterated the need for “stable and predictable” relations with the United States following a series of high-level engagements in Beijing. Premier Li Qiang, accompanied by other top officials, welcomed a US Senate delegation led by Senator Steve Daines on Wednesday, emphasizing that cooperation remains the only sustainable path for the world’s two largest economies.
In a significant development, Premier Li urged the US to move away from a “zero-sum” mindset and adopt a more constructive economic partnership. He expressed optimism that Washington would align with Beijing’s approach to promote dialogue instead of friction. Li highlighted that maintaining steady economic and trade relations is not just a diplomatic preference but aligns with the fundamental interests of both nations.
These remarks reflect Beijing’s intent to ease tensions over trade disputes that have frequently unsettled global markets. Meanwhile, the visit occurred amid a cautious phase of re-engagement between the two powers.
The US Senate delegation also held talks with Zhao Leji, Chairman of the National People’s Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, and Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Discussions centered on the importance of legislative exchanges as a foundation for broader diplomatic understanding. Zhao underscored the NPC’s role in supporting bilateral state relations, while Wang reiterated China’s commitment to mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.
Notably, these meetings demonstrate Beijing’s strategy to engage directly with US lawmakers, aiming to circumvent some of the more hawkish rhetoric in Washington by emphasizing the shared economic advantages of a functional bilateral relationship.
