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BEIJING, CHINA — Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday said he hopes to work with U.S. President Donald Trump in the new year to guide China-U.S. relations steadily through challenges and achieve positive results.
Xi made the remarks during a phone call with Trump, noting that he attaches great importance to bilateral ties. He highlighted their “sound communication” over the past year and their successful meeting in Busan, which he said set the direction for relations and was welcomed by both countries and the international community.
“Just as the United States has its concerns, China also has its own,” Xi said. He added that if both sides act in the spirit of equality, respect, and mutual benefit, they can address each other’s concerns effectively.
The Chinese leader pointed to key events for both nations in 2026, including the launch of China’s 15th Five-Year Plan and the U.S. 250th anniversary of independence. Xi also mentioned the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in China and the G20 Summit in the U.S.
Xi urged both countries to follow prior agreements, strengthen dialogue, manage differences, and expand practical cooperation. He said progress should be made step by step to build mutual trust and promote peaceful coexistence.
He reiterated that the Taiwan issue remains the most important in China-U.S. relations, stressing that Taiwan is part of China and that its sovereignty and territorial integrity must be safeguarded. Xi also called on the U.S. to exercise prudence in arms sales to Taiwan.
Trump, in response, described China and the United States as “great countries” and called the bilateral relationship the most important in the world. He said he has a good personal relationship with Xi and respects him, noting that both countries are cooperating in areas such as trade and the economy.
Trump added that he wants to see China succeed and expressed a desire to continue working with China to maintain a strong relationship. He also said he understands China’s concerns regarding Taiwan and wants to keep communication channels open during his presidency. (Xinhua)