BEIJING: China has expressed readiness to strengthen communication with the United States at all levels, while firmly safeguarding its core interests and “red lines,” a senior parliamentary spokesperson said on Wednesday.
Speaking ahead of the annual session of the National People’s Congress (NPC), spokesperson Lou Qinjian said Beijing remains open to engagement but will resolutely protect its sovereignty, security and development priorities.
The NPC is set to open its yearly meeting on Thursday, during which China is expected to announce its economic growth targets and key policy agenda for the year.
Lou’s remarks come at a delicate juncture in China-US relations, as both sides attempt to steady ties before a potential summit between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, reportedly scheduled for late March in Beijing, according to Reuters.
“China and the United States should respect each other and pursue peaceful coexistence,” Lou said, underscoring that diplomacy between heads of state plays an “irreplaceable strategic role” in guiding bilateral relations.
He urged both countries to broaden areas of cooperation while narrowing points of friction, and called on the US Congress to adopt a more objective view of China to help improve ties.
According to US officials, President Trump is expected to visit China from March 31 to April 2, though Beijing has not formally confirmed the trip.
Meanwhile, senior trade representatives from both countries are anticipated to meet in Paris next week to discuss potential economic agreements ahead of the leaders’ meeting.
