China's US envoy urges end to trade war, but warns Beijing ready to fight

China’s ambassador to the United States, Xie Feng, has called for peaceful coexistence and mutual respect between Washington and Beijing, warning that China is prepared to retaliate if trade tensions continue to escalate.

China’s ambassador to the United States, Xie Feng, has urged Washington to seek common ground and strive for peaceful coexistence, while warning that Beijing is prepared to retaliate amid rising tensions in the ongoing trade war.

Speaking at a public event in Washington on Saturday, with remarks later posted on the Chinese embassy’s website, Xie criticized the use of tariffs, warning they could severely harm the global economy. He drew a historical parallel to the U.S. tariffs of 1930, which many link to the onset of the Great Depression.

Invoking principles from traditional Chinese medicine, Xie emphasized the importance of balance and harmony in international relations, particularly between the world’s two largest economies. "A good traditional Chinese medicine prescription combines multiple ingredients that complement each other for optimal results," he said. "Likewise, the world is big enough to accommodate both China and the U.S. We should aim for peaceful coexistence and mutual success, not confrontation and a lose-lose outcome."

The intensifying trade conflict has stalled economic engagement between the two countries, with tariffs exceeding 100% on both sides and sweeping restrictions affecting trade, investment, and cultural exchanges.

China’s shipbuilding association also condemned a U.S. proposal to impose port fees on vessels linked to China, further inflaming trade tensions.

While Japan, Taiwan, and other countries are already negotiating with Washington over President Donald Trump’s newly proposed “Liberation Day” tariffs, no high-level talks are currently scheduled with Beijing.

Trump, however, struck an optimistic tone on Friday, telling reporters at the White House that "nice conversations" were happening with China behind the scenes, though he offered no further details.

China has insisted that mutual respect is a prerequisite for any formal dialogue. Xie reiterated that China opposes the trade war and stands ready to respond to any country that imposes tariffs on its goods.

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