Beijing: China stated on Wednesday that the United States must cease its "threatening" and "coercing" tactics if it seeks to resolve the ongoing tariff tensions through negotiations.

According to Anadolu Agency, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun emphasized that for genuine negotiations to occur, the US should approach talks with China based on equality, mutual respect, and reciprocity. This statement was made in response to US President Donald Trump's remarks about the high tariffs on Chinese goods. Trump indicated that the 145% tariffs could be significantly reduced but not eliminated entirely.

The spokesperson criticized the US approach, stating that applying maximum pressure while simultaneously discussing negotiations is ineffective. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has commented on the situation, suggesting that the current state resembles a trade embargo. He also clarified that Washington does not aim to decouple from China and mentioned the possibility of reaching a comprehensive agreement within two to three years.

Earlier this month, President Trump announced a temporary 90-day pause on reciprocal tariffs affecting imports from various countries, with China being a notable exception. Despite this pause, the US administration has intensified the trade conflict with China by increasing import duties on Chinese goods to as high as 145%. Furthermore, Trump has warned that tariffs on Chinese exports could rise to 245%.