China: we’re still talking to US about Trump trip after threat to delay over Iran crisis
Two sides still ‘in communication’, foreign ministry says, after US leader hints he could postpone visit unless Beijing helps reopen Strait of Hormuz
On Sunday, he told the Financial Times “it’s only appropriate that people who are the beneficiaries of the strait will help to make sure that nothing bad happens there”.
He also said he would prefer to know Beijing’s position before he travelled there, adding “we may delay”.
When asked about Trump’s comments, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian said the two countries were “in communication” over the visit and described head-of-state diplomacy as playing an “irreplaceable role” in their relationship.
China has yet to make a formal announcement about the trip but the White House has said it will run from March 31 to April 2.