US V-P JD Vance meets Chinese counterpart ahead of Trump’s inauguration
Washington: US Vice-President-elect JD Vance met with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng on Sunday, a day before he and President-elect Donald Trump will be sworn into office, as confirmed by a news statement from the Trump-Vance transition team.
The meeting, which took place on Sunday, covered a variety of important topics that are crucial for the relationship between the two countries.
Among the key issues discussed during the meeting were the pressing matter of fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid that has been a major concern in the US and has been linked to China. Both parties likely discussed strategies to combat the production and distribution of this dangerous drug.
Both Vance and Han discussed an array of topics, including fentanyl, balancing trade and regional stability, the Trump-Vance transition team said in a statement.
Additionally, the meeting touched upon the topic of trade balance between the two nations. Achieving a fair and mutually beneficial trade relationship is essential for both the US and China, and discussions on this front are crucial for maintaining economic stability and growth.
The two leaders also addressed the importance of regional stability in the context of their bilateral relations. Ensuring peace and security in the region is a shared goal that requires cooperation and dialogue between the two countries.
It is noteworthy that Han Zheng, as China’s special representative, is expected to attend the upcoming presidential inauguration of JD Vance on Monday. This signifies the importance that China places on its relationship with the US and the new administration.
Trump invited Chinese President Xi Jinping to attend the inauguration after winning last year’s presidential election. Xi has sent Han in his place.
Vance’s meeting with Han follows a recent phone call between Trump and Xi. During the call, the two leaders discussed issues including TikTok, trade and Taiwan.
It was the first known phone call between the two heads of state since Trump’s election in November.
The Wall Street Journal reported on January 18 that Trump has told advisers he wants to travel to China after he takes office.
If the trip happens, it would mark his second visit to China as President. Trump travelled to Beijing in 2017 during a trip to Asia where he visited several other countries.
In conclusion, the meeting between Vance and Zheng marks an important step in strengthening the relationship between the two countries and addressing key issues of mutual concern. The outcomes of this meeting are likely to have a significant impact on future interactions and cooperation between the US and China.