Li Chenggang: China and the United States have reached preliminary consensus on some issues.

On March 15th and 16th local time, China and the United States held economic and trade consultations in Paris, France. Li Chenggang, Vice Minister of the International Trade Negotiations Department of the Ministry of Commerce of China, stated that over the past day and a half, the two sides had frank, in-depth, and constructive discussions, reaching preliminary consensus on some issues. The next step is for both sides to continue the consultation process. Li Chenggang mentioned that the topics discussed between China and the United States included the bilateral tariff levels in the new situation, the possible further extension of arrangements related to bilateral tariffs and relevant non-tariff measures. The U.S. side introduced their latest adjustments to tariff measures and their considerations for the next steps, and China expressed concerns about the uncertainty caused by this. Both sides agreed to work together to maintain the stability of bilateral economic and trade relations and discussed the idea of establishing a mechanism to promote bilateral trade and investment cooperation. Regarding the U.S. measures restricting Chinese trade and investment, especially the recent initiation of two 301 investigations involving China, Li Chenggang stated that China conducted serious negotiations during the consultations and expressed serious concern. "We oppose these unilateral investigations. We are concerned about the potential disruption and damage to the hard-won stable economic and trade relationship between China and the United States that may result from the outcomes of these investigations." Li Chenggang said that China closely monitors the follow-up progress of these investigations and will take corresponding measures in a timely manner to safeguard China's legitimate rights and interests. "We hope the U.S. will keep its promises, work together with China, and jointly promote the stable and long-term development of bilateral economic and trade relations between China and the United States." Li Chenggang mentioned that during these consultations, China and the United States further recognized that a stable economic and trade relationship is beneficial for both countries and the world.