Chinese State Media: "Important Guidance for China-US Relations
We Must Remain Calm, Aware of Trump's Unpredictability"
As US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed to resume trade negotiations during a phone call on the 5th, there has been an assessment in China that "export controls on rare earth elements have proven effective."
Jin Canrong, a professor at the School of International Studies at Renmin University, wrote on his social media account on the 6th, "Last week, President Trump threatened China, claiming that China had violated its commitments under the Geneva agreement. However, in reality, even as he was making threats, he was still eager to talk to us." He identified rare earth elements as the factor that made this phone call possible.
Professor Jin stated, "Rare earth elements are a trump card that China holds. Currently, the United States is particularly anxious about the rare earth issue and is eager to resolve it quickly. The fact that Trump specifically mentioned rare earth elements on social media demonstrates how seriously he takes this issue, and at the same time, it shows that we have played this card very effectively."
Previously, as the trade war with the United States intensified, the Chinese government required special export permits for seven types of rare earth elements as of April 4 this year. China is the world's dominant supplier of rare earth elements, accounting for about 70% of global mining and over 90% of processing.
As a result of this measure, with China delaying export permits for rare earth elements, not only the United States but also automakers in Europe and Japan have faced difficulties in procuring parts such as rare earth magnets needed for the production of electric and hybrid vehicles. Some automakers and parts manufacturers have even suspended factory operations.
Professor Jin added, "To be honest, I did not expect China's rare earth card to be this effective," and continued, "We must use the rare earth card to force Trump to make concessions. Regarding rare earth export controls, Chinese leaders (Xi Jinping) should not make any promises to Trump lightly and should leave it to the negotiating team to continue discussions."
Chinese state media have also issued cautious statements of welcome. The social media account 'New Tanqin', operated by Xinhua News Agency, described the call between President Xi and President Trump as "undoubtedly a significant moment that will serve as important guidance for China-US relations." However, it also warned, "Facing harsh realities, we must be even clearer and more rational. We need to recognize that Trump is not a traditional politician. His greatest certainty is his unpredictability, and it is not difficult for him to completely reverse his position."
Professor Jin Canrong also commented, "The upgrade of China-US contacts from high-level to summit-level brings certain advantages for maintaining stability in the relationship. Although there are many conflicts between the two countries, communication channels remain open, and as long as these channels function smoothly, there is capacity for crisis management." He added, "It is also a positive sign that both sides are willing to implement the (Geneva) agreement and continue working-level talks."
Professor Jin concluded, "Going forward, the key to a breakthrough depends on whether the United States can adjust its negotiating posture. If it maintains a condescending attitude and forces unilateral concessions from China, the deadlock will continue." He further stated, "After this phone call, Trump will understand that pressure and threats are not the right way to deal with China."
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