Dialogue and consultation the right course for China-US economic and trade relations: China Daily editorial

The latest round of China-US economic and trade talks held in Madrid concluded with new results, sending a clear signal that both sides prefer engagement over confrontation.

Through candid, in-depth and constructive communication, the two sides reached a basic framework consensus on resolving issues related to TikTok through cooperation, reducing investment barriers and promoting relevant economic and trade cooperation, according to Li Chenggang, China international trade representative with the Ministry of Commerce.

The two sides discussed their respective concerns relating to TikTok and reached a basic agreement regarding its future operations in the US market. That is a major result of the deliberations, and marks a step forward in resolving the issue, which is of concern to the 170 million users of the app in the US.

The Chinese side emphasized its consistent position that the handling of the TikTok issue and other economic matters must follow the principles of fairness, nondiscrimination and respect for market rules. While on its part, the US acknowledged the need for practical solutions that avoid escalation and serve the interests of both countries.

The outcomes of the Madrid talks are the result of continuous engagement under the guidance of the heads of state. By exploring ways to implement the important consensus reached between the leaders of the two countries, the series of meetings have not only put flesh on the bones of that consensus but also demonstrated that cooperation is the correct choice for China and the US.

The progress achieved in their four rounds of economic and trade talks — in Geneva, London, Stockholm and Madrid — once again shows that dialogue and consultation, based on mutual respect and equality, remain the right way for the world's two largest economies to manage their differences. Recalibrating the direction of China-US relations requires the two sides to make joint efforts to steer clear of disturbances, and make good use of their established consultation mechanisms.

China's approach to managing disputes is consistent. While firmly safeguarding the country's legitimate rights and interests, Beijing has always advocated handling disagreements through negotiations on the basis of equality and mutual respect. As Vice-Premier He Lifeng noted, China's determination to defend its development rights remains unwavering, and any negotiations must serve the shared interests of both peoples. The Madrid talks clearly showed that when both parties engage constructively, tangible results can be achieved.

It is equally important that attempts to politicize trade issues should not be allowed to disrupt the exchanges between the two sides. China has voiced its opposition to the US pressing third parties to impose so-called "secondary tariffs" on China over its normal economic activities with other trading partners. Such practices not only go against international trade rules and harm global supply chains, but also risk creating unnecessary frictions. The Madrid talks highlighted the necessity of resisting these disruptive measures and focusing instead on mutually beneficial collaboration.

The constructive atmosphere in Madrid also sends a message to the international community. At a time when the global economy faces downward pressure and uncertainty, coordination between China and the US carries weight far beyond bilateral ties. Stability in the economic relationship between the two giants is essential for global confidence. The progress on TikTok demonstrates that even complex issues can be addressed when both sides commit to dialogue and practical problem-solving.

Looking forward, it is crucial for Beijing and Washington to continue to implement the consensus of the leaders of the two countries and to maintain open channels of communication. The US side should honor its commitments and remove unnecessary negative measures in order to create a favorable environment for cooperation and dialogue.

In the process, the two sides should expand exchanges in relevant fields including foreign affairs, economy and trade, and law enforcement, so as to build greater consensus, further expand their common interests, and deliver more benefits to their people and the world.

The outcomes of the Madrid talks, along with those of the two sides' previous economic and trade talks, show that when China and the US work together, they can achieve positive results.

At this critical juncture, the US should meet China halfway to shoulder their responsibilities as major countries, fulfill their commitments and continue to steer the course of relations toward mutual benefit and win-win results.

The Madrid talks mark another step in that direction. By keeping the larger picture in mind, China and the US can work together to put their economic and trade relations on a stable track. The new outcomes of their talks should serve as a reminder that cooperation, not confrontation, defines the right direction for bilateral economic ties.