
The Times Of India |
May 13, 2025 , 21:18:00 IST
Donald Trump Tariff Live Updates: 'Certain major power is obsessed with idea that might makes right,' China FM apparent dig at US
After months of tension, the United States and China have taken a step toward easing their strained trade relationship, announcing a deal following weekend negotiations in Geneva. The US and China on Monday announced an agreement to drastically reduce tit-for-tat tariffs for 90 days, de-escalating a trade war that has roiled financial markets and raised fears of a global economic downturn.The talks in Geneva were facilitated by the Swiss government, which the US delegation thanked for providing a productive and neutral venue. Although the specific terms of the deal have not yet been released, officials from both sides indicated that significant progress was made.The two-day talks concluded with what US officials called substantial progress, although they have not yet disclosed the details of the agreement.President Trump, signaling a shift in tone, had indicated his readiness to reduce tariffs on Chinese imports from 145 per cent to 80 per cent—a significant gesture that may have paved the way for smoother talks. He attributed final decision-making authority to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, reflecting a delegation of trust in key negotiators.Bessent, who led the US team alongside Ambassador Jamieson Greer, credited the Swiss hosts for enabling a productive atmosphere and confirmed that both sides engaged at a high level, including China’s vice premier and senior ministers. Both Bessent and Greer kept President Trump informed throughout the process.Greer characterized the talks as surprisingly swift and constructive, hinting that earlier assumptions about the scale of disagreement may have been overstated. He tied the negotiation’s urgency to the US’s massive 1.2 trillion dollar trade deficit, which led to Trump’s declaration of a national emergency and imposition of tariffs.The announcement signals a potential thaw in US-China economic relations. However, observers will be watching closely for the actual terms of the deal and whether it meaningfully addresses trade imbalances or simply de-escalates a politically charged issue—at least for now.
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