Beijing responds strongly to Trump’s call for 50-100% tariffs on China, urging peace and multilateral cooperation
China Pushes Back Against Trump’s Tariff Threat
China has firmly responded to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent proposal urging NATO to impose 50% to 100% tariffs on Chinese imports. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi rejected the idea, emphasizing China’s commitment to peaceful diplomacy and multilateral cooperation, rather than conflict or economic coercion.
Key Highlights from China’s Response
- “We do not take part in wars”: Wang Yi reaffirmed that China does not engage in or plan wars, instead advocating for peaceful dialogue to resolve global tensions.
- Diplomatic efforts in focus: Speaking from Ljubljana after meeting Slovenian Deputy PM Tanja Fajon, Wang stressed that war only complicates issues, and that sanctions and tariffs are counterproductive.
- Call for global cooperation:
- Urged the strengthening of multilateral mechanisms.
- Highlighted the need to uphold the UN Charter’s principles.
- Called for China-Europe unity, emphasizing friendship and cooperation over rivalry.
China’s Subtle Warning to the West
Wang Yi’s remarks, covered by China Daily and Global Times, come shortly after Trump made bold claims on his social media platform, Truth Social. Trump proposed the NATO-imposed tariffs as a means to pressure China and alleged Chinese influence over Russia during the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
“China has a strong control, and even grip, over Russia… These powerful tariffs will break that grip,” Trump asserted.
Trump’s Latest Claims Against China
In addition to the tariff proposal, Trump made further accusations:
- Claimed Chinese President Xi Jinping is ‘conspiring against’ the United States.
- Reacted to China’s recent military parade, attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
- Despite his harsh rhetoric, Trump added that his personal relationship with the Chinese leadership remains “very good.”
Final Word: China’s Stand on Global Conflicts
Wang Yi concluded by urging nations to make the right choices amid global instability, emphasizing the responsibilities of global powers like China and Europe to work towards dialogue, peace, and mutual respect, rather than division and confrontation.
