Beijing: China on Tuesday called for a 'new starting point' in ties with Washington under newly inaugurated US President Donald Trump, state media reported. Beijing expressed its willingness to engage with the new US administration following Trump's return to the White House for his non-consecutive second term. The appeal for renewed cooperation comes after a tumultuous first term that saw relations between the world's two largest economies deteriorate, primarily due to a trade war.

According to Anadolu Agency, Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun stated that China is prepared to work with the new US administration based on principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation. He emphasized the importance of maintaining communication, enhancing cooperation, managing differences properly, and achieving greater progress in China-US relations from a new starting point. This statement was made in response to inquiries about whether Beijing would extend an invitation to President Trump to visit China.

Furthermore, Guo highlighted the essence of China-US economic and trade cooperation as being mutually beneficial and aimed at win-win outcomes. He underscored that maintaining stable development in these relations aligns with the fundamental interests of both countries and their peoples, while also benefiting the global economy. Guo reiterated Beijing's willingness to strengthen dialogue with Washington to achieve these goals.

Additionally, Guo expressed China's concerns over the US decision to exit the Paris climate agreement, a move President Trump made through an executive order soon after his inauguration. Trump also withdrew the US from the World Health Organization (WHO). In response, Guo affirmed China's commitment to supporting the WHO in fulfilling its duties and deepening international public health cooperation. He emphasized China's dedication to strengthening global health governance and promoting a human health community.