Beijing urges an end to Global trade conflicts

Monday 27 October 2025 - 07:30

By: Sahili Aya

Beijing urges an end to Global trade conflicts

China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi urged the international community on Monday to “put an end” to trade wars and economic fragmentation, just days before a highly anticipated meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump in South Korea. The two leaders are expected to meet on Thursday in an effort to reach an agreement that could put an end to their prolonged trade dispute.

Speaking at a forum in Beijing, Wang criticized the “politicization of economic and trade issues” and warned against “artificial market fragmentation and tariff battles,” in a clear reference to U.S. protectionist policies. He also denounced the practice of “frequently withdrawing from agreements and breaking commitments,” saying it has placed multilateralism under “unprecedented strain.”

“The course of history cannot be reversed,” Wang said, affirming that a “multipolar world” is emerging and that cooperation, not confrontation, should guide global relations.

Meanwhile, Donald Trump, currently en route to Japan as part of his Asian tour, expressed optimism about reaching a “good deal” with China during talks scheduled on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Gyeongju, South Korea.

According to U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, both leaders are expected to approve a compromise covering rare earth materials and agricultural imports, particularly Chinese purchases of American soybeans. On the Chinese side, Trade Representative Li Chenggang confirmed that Beijing and Washington have reached a “preliminary consensus.” A temporary tariff truce remains in effect between the two nations.