BEIJING, Feb 4 (ABC): Chinese President Xi Jinping said he is ready to work closely with U.S. President Donald Trump to steer China-US ties forward in the new year, stressing the need for dialogue, mutual respect and practical cooperation between the world’s two largest economies.
During a phone conversation with Trump, Xi described China-US ties as one of the most important bilateral relationships globally. He said stable relations benefit not only both countries but also the wider international community.
According to the state-run Xinhua news agency, Xi said he attaches great importance to China-US ties and values continued communication with the U.S. leadership.
Dialogue and cooperation stressed
Xi noted that over the past year both leaders maintained sound communication. He also recalled their successful meeting in Busan, which he said helped chart the direction for future China-US ties.
He added that people in both countries, as well as the global community, welcomed efforts to stabilise relations.
At the same time, Xi acknowledged that both sides have concerns.
“Just as the United States has its concerns, China for its part also has concerns,” he said.
However, he stressed that China always matches words with actions. Therefore, he said both sides can resolve differences if they work together in the spirit of equality, respect and mutual benefit.
Key events for both countries
Xi highlighted important national milestones this year.
China will begin its 15th Five-Year Plan. Meanwhile, the United States will celebrate the 250th anniversary of its independence.
In addition, China will host the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting, while the United States will host the G20 Summit.
Given these events, Xi said both countries should enhance dialogue and communication. He urged both sides to properly manage differences and expand practical cooperation in trade, economy and global affairs.
“It is always right to do a good thing, however small,” Xi said. “And it is always wrong to do a bad thing, however small.”
He added that step-by-step progress can help build mutual trust and create a stable path for China-US ties.
Xi expressed hope that 2026 would become a year of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation.
Taiwan remains sensitive issue
Xi emphasised that the Taiwan question remains the most important and sensitive issue in China-US ties.
He said Taiwan is China’s territory and that Beijing must safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity. He added that China would never allow Taiwan to separate.
Xi also urged the United States to handle arms sales to Taiwan with prudence.
Trump signals positive outlook
For his part, Trump described China and the United States as great countries and said the bilateral relationship is the most important in the world.
He said he maintains a good relationship with Xi and respects him.
Trump added that under their leadership both countries were performing well in areas such as economy and trade.
He also said he wants China to succeed and expressed willingness to deepen cooperation.
The U.S. president said Washington would like to work with Beijing to make further progress in China-US ties. He added that he understands China’s position on the Taiwan issue.
Trump concluded by saying both sides should continue dialogue and maintain stable China-US ties during his presidency.
Outlook
Analysts say sustained communication between the two leaders could help reduce tensions and create opportunities for cooperation in trade, technology and global governance.
As both nations prepare for major domestic and international events this year, Xi and Trump signalled that steady engagement remains key to steering China-US ties forward.