Amid trade war tensions and soaring tariffs, Trump hails progress in behind-closed-doors talks with Chinese delegation, but concrete breakthroughs remain elusive.
May 11, 2025: In a major development amid escalating trade tensions, US President Donald Trump on Saturday hailed his administration’s first direct meeting with Chinese officials in Geneva as a “total reset” in relations, claiming “great progress” was made in discussions aimed at ending a high-stakes tariff war.
“A very good meeting today with China, in Switzerland. Many things discussed, much agreed to… GREAT PROGRESS MADE!!!” Trump posted on his social media platform Truth Social following the closed-door session.
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The day-long talks, held at a discreet villa in the upscale Cologny suburb of Geneva, saw Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng meet US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer for the first time since both nations imposed punishing tariffs exceeding 100% on each other’s exports.
The meeting, which lasted around eight hours, was kept under wraps with no formal press briefings. However, sources close to the negotiations confirmed that discussions would resume Sunday, with hopes of de-escalating tensions that have paralyzed nearly $600 billion in annual bilateral trade and rippled through global supply chains.
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Trump has maintained a hardline stance since imposing sweeping tariffs in February, recently suggesting an 80% blanket tariff on Chinese imports. China has responded with retaliatory duties of up to 125%, accusing Washington of economic aggression and interference.
Chinese state media outlet Xinhua called the Geneva negotiations “a positive and necessary step,” while warning that Beijing remains resolute in defending its sovereignty and development interests.
Analysts remain cautious, with expectations of a breakthrough tempered by entrenched distrust and conflicting demands. The US is pushing for a reduction in its massive trade deficit with China and seeking structural reforms in Beijing’s economic policies. Meanwhile, China wants clarity on US trade expectations and equal treatment on the global stage.
Swiss Economy Minister Guy Parmelin, who facilitated the talks, called the meeting itself “a success,” adding that if a roadmap emerges, “it will help lower the tensions.”
China’s delegation is also expected to meet World Trade Organization chief Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, with the WTO welcoming the talks as a vital step toward de-escalation.
Despite public optimism from Trump, tangible progress remains to be seen. Investors are watching closely for signs of a cooling trade war between the world’s two largest economies — one that continues to cast a long shadow over global economic stability.
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