China Expresses Willingness to Improve US Relations While Maintaining Firm Boundaries

Chinese officials say they want better communication with the United States while defending their core interests. The statement comes as both nations prepare for a potential leaders' summit at the end of March.

BEIJING – A Chinese parliamentary spokesperson announced Wednesday that Beijing remains open to strengthening dialogue with Washington across multiple levels, though the nation will continue defending what it calls its fundamental principles and boundaries.

Lou Qinjian made these remarks during a press briefing ahead of Thursday’s opening of the National People’s Congress annual gathering, where Chinese leaders will announce their economic goals and policy direction for the coming year.

The timing of these comments is particularly significant as both nations work to improve relations before an anticipated meeting between Presidents Donald Trump and Xi Jinping scheduled for late March in Beijing.

According to Lou, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence should guide the relationship between the two superpowers.

“China has its own principles and red lines, and as always, will resolutely defend its sovereignty, security and development interests,” he stated during the news conference.

The spokesperson emphasized that direct communication between national leaders plays a crucial and “irreplaceable strategic role” in managing bilateral relations. He encouraged both countries to “expand the list of cooperation (areas) while reducing the list of problems.”

Lou also appealed to American lawmakers to approach China with an “objective” perspective and take actions that would strengthen ties between the nations.

While a White House representative has verified that Trump plans to visit China from March 31 through April 2, Chinese officials have yet to make their own formal confirmation of the trip.

According to Bloomberg News reports from Tuesday, senior trade officials from both countries are planning to convene in Paris next week to explore possible commercial agreements related to the upcoming presidential meeting.