Treasury chief meets Chinese counterpart ahead of Trump-Xi talks

Treasury Secretary Bessent met with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng on Tuesday as preparations advanced for a forthcoming summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The bilateral encounter reflected efforts by both nations to lay groundwork on economic and financial issues ahead of the leaders' scheduled discussions.

The meetings underscore ongoing diplomatic engagement between Washington and Beijing amid broader efforts to manage bilateral relations. Financial officials from both countries have maintained communication channels even as the two nations navigate trade and economic policy differences.

Details regarding the scope of discussions between Bessent and He were limited, though such preliminary meetings typically focus on economic cooperation, trade relations, and financial market stability. The timing of the engagement suggests both governments are seeking to establish constructive frameworks for the upcoming presidential-level talks.

The Trump-Xi summit represents a significant moment for U.S.-China relations, with both nations facing pressure to address longstanding disputes over trade, technology, and regional security matters. Preparatory meetings such as Tuesday's gathering between senior economic officials are customary practice before high-level summits, allowing negotiating teams to identify areas of potential common ground.