WASHINGTON (CP) – President Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping conducted a 90-minute phone conversation aimed at preserving their fragile trade agreement, with Xi urging both leaders to maintain steady leadership amid growing tensions over technology restrictions and economic policies.
President Trump accepted a phone call from Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday, marking their first direct conversation since trade tensions escalated following recent technology export controls and visa restrictions. The 90-minute discussion focused on implementing their previous trade agreement and preventing further deterioration of US-China economic relations. White House officials described the call as productive, with both leaders agreeing to continue negotiations through established diplomatic channels including Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.
During the conversation, Xi emphasized the importance of strong leadership in managing the relationship between the world’s two largest economies. The Chinese leader compared their partnership to captains steering a large ship, stressing the need to avoid outside interference that could derail progress on trade negotiations. Xi specifically requested that the Trump administration withdraw what Beijing considers negative measures, including recent restrictions on artificial intelligence chip sales and proposed visa revocations for Chinese students studying in critical technology fields.
The call addressed several contentious issues that have emerged since their April trade agreement. China has continued limiting exports of rare earth minerals essential for US manufacturing, while the United States has imposed new restrictions on chip design software sales to China and suspended some jet engine component exports. President Trump appeared to soften the administration’s stance on Chinese student visas during the call, stating “Chinese students are coming. No problem. It’s our honor to have them,” which represents a shift from Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s earlier announcement of aggressive visa revocations.
Both leaders agreed to work toward implementing their existing trade framework while pursuing negotiations for a more comprehensive agreement. The conversation concluded with mutual invitations for official visits to each country, suggesting a commitment to maintaining diplomatic engagement despite ongoing economic disputes. Trade experts view the call as evidence that China recognizes the Trump administration’s determination to secure favorable terms while demonstrating America’s willingness to engage constructively with Beijing when Chinese leadership shows genuine commitment to fair trade practices and respect for US economic interests.