China Open to Talks If US Shows Respect, Names Point Person

Beijing Wants the US to Appoint a Point Person Who Can Help Prepare a Deal That Trump and Xi Can Sign When They Meet

- Bloomberg

China wants to see a number of steps from President Donald Trump's administration before it will agree to trade talks, including showing more respect by reining in disparaging remarks by members of his cabinet, according to a person familiar with the Chinese government's thinking.

Other conditions include a more consistent US position and a willingness to address China's concerns around American sanctions and Taiwan, said the person, who asked not to be identified to discuss internal thinking.

Beijing also wants the US to appoint a point person for talks who has the president's support and can help prepare a deal that Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping can sign when they meet, the person said.

The fate of the global economy and financial markets hinges in large part on whether the US and China can find a way to avoid a protracted trade war.