US Tariffs Live: Trump Eyes Norway Deal
Trump Claims Trade Talks With China ongoing, Beijing Denies
WASHINGTON (AP) — despite a firm denial from Beijing, former U.S. President Donald Trump insisted trade negotiations with China are underway. The conflicting accounts surfaced during a meeting with Norwegian prime minister Jonas Gahr Støre.
Trump’s Assertion of U.S.-China Contact
when questioned about the status of discussions,trump stated,”Well,they had a meeting this morning and we met China.” He suggested further details would be forthcoming.”That was probably reported,” Trump told the questioner.
The previous day, Trump claimed the U.S. and China maintained daily contact. Responding too a journalist’s inquiry about direct engagement regarding the trade conflict,trump affirmed,”Yes,of course. And every day, every day.”
China’s rejection of Negotiations
China refuted Trump’s claims. A spokesman for the Beijing Ministry of Foreign Affairs told reporters,”As far as I know,there were no consultations or negotiations between China and the United States in the customs question – let alone an agreement.” The spokesman dismissed reports of ongoing talks as “fake news.”
Hopes for Future Dialog
According to media reports, then-Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent expressed optimism that both nations were willing to engage in future discussions. Bessent reportedly stated he did not believe either side considered the existing tariff levels to be a permanent solution.
