Advertisement
Editorial
China policy to stay on course despite delay to Xi-Trump summit
Although Trump is on the back foot and China may have the advantage, this will not affect Beijing’s consistent approach in dealing with the US
2-MIN READ2-MIN
3
Listen
Editorials represent the views of the South China Morning Post on the issues of the day.
Washington’s request to reschedule US President Donald Trump’s visit to Beijing reflects the reality that the war in Iran has not followed the script. It was anticipated that superior American power would result in a quick victory over Iran, which China considers a strategic partner and oil supplier, well ahead of a summit with President Xi Jinping.
The United States has done all the running in the preparations for the visit, including announcing the dates of March 31 to April 2. China had made no official announcement.
The groundwork includes the latest round of trade talks in Paris between lead negotiators Vice-Premier He Lifeng and US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. Another round of talks is likely soon. In this regard, buying one more month is good for both sides.
Trump asked Beijing for a delay of “a month or so”. “We got a war going on. I think it’s important that I be here,” he told reporters. The war is not going as smoothly as expected, from the disruption of the oil trade to the reluctance of the US’ allies to join it. Trump is on the back foot and under pressure domestically.
Select Voice
Select Speed
1x
AI-generated voice