Trade Talks in Stalemate: Trump's Claims Contradicted by China**

While President Trump claims to be negotiating with China regarding trade tariffs, Chinese authorities refute these assertions, stating that no discussions are taking place and emphasizing the need for mutual respect in dialogues.**

President Trump, amid ongoing tensions in the U.S.-China trade relationship, recently suggested that discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping were underway concerning trade tariffs. His remarks, made during a recent Time interview, aimed to reassure anxious financial markets that have reacted negatively since the onset of the trade conflict. However, these claims have been met with firm denials from Chinese officials, who assert that no active negotiations are taking place.

In a press briefing, Guo Jiakun, spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry, remarked, “China and the U.S. have not held consultations or negotiations on the issue of tariffs.” He urged the United States not to mislead the public about their dialogue, emphasizing the necessity for appropriate conditions for discussions, including respect and equality.

Despite President Trump’s insistence that he and Xi have spoken “numerous times,” he refrained from confirming whether any communication occurred post-tariff imposition earlier this month. Such insistence appears geared towards instilling a sense of optimism amid fears of a prolonged trade conflict that has manifested in significant stock market downturns, with the S&P 500 index down 10 percent since Trump’s inauguration.

While China’s Commerce Ministry echoed similar sentiments regarding the absence of trade dialogues, calling for an end to threats and a return to respectful discussions, the divide between U.S. proclamations and China’s statements underscores the complexity and fragility of international trade relations at this juncture. As mounting tensions continue to leave investors apprehensive, the outcome of these communications remains uncertain.