Senior officials from the United States and China convened in New York to discuss key issues such as trade, investment, and artificial intelligence ahead of a scheduled meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The talks aimed to uphold a delicate trade truce set to expire in November.
The dialogue was spearheaded by U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng, as both nations work to mitigate ongoing tensions between the world’s two largest economies. Among the primary focal points were the reduction of trade barriers, including tariffs and export restrictions impacting American energy and agricultural exports.
In addition to trade, artificial intelligence emerged as a contentious topic. U.S. officials, along with technology companies, have expressed concerns about Chinese firms developing AI systems using technology derived from American models. China, however, denies these accusations and opposes any measures perceived to hinder its AI industry.
As the Trump-Xi summit approaches, discussions are expected to focus on managing risks associated with AI development and averting further division between the two nations’ technology sectors. The meeting is also anticipated to explore the broader economic and strategic relationship between Washington and Beijing, addressing trade restrictions, technological competition, and other mutual concerns.