China Congratulates Trump on Election Victory

BEIJING/HONG KONG (Reuters) – China expressed its respect for the U.S. election results and congratulated Donald Trump on his victory. An official newspaper advocated for a "pragmatic" approach to bilateral differences as U.S. tariff threats loom.

Trump, a Republican, won the White House against Democrat Kamala Harris, taking office in January. A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson stated, "We respect the choice of the American people and congratulate Mr. Trump on his election as president."

U.S.-China relations have been tense, especially regarding trade and security issues like Taiwan and the South China Sea. Trump's victory may revive issues from his previous presidency (2017-2021), particularly the trade war and tariffs imposed.

China Daily published an editorial suggesting that Trump's second presidency could be a "new beginning" in China-U.S. relations, as long as the opportunity isn’t wasted. The Biden administration maintained many of Trump's trade policies, including targeting China's state-driven industrial practices.

In September, it implemented significant tariff hikes on Chinese imports, including a 100% duty on electric vehicles and 50% on solar cells, aimed at protecting American industries.

The editorial also noted that Trump’s threat to impose 60% tariffs on U.S. imports from China presents significant risks for Chinese economic growth, given the current vulnerabilities in China’s economy, including a property downturn and weak domestic demand.

China Daily emphasized that U.S. policies and perceived "misconceptions" toward China pose substantial challenges for bilateral relations. They stated, "A pragmatic approach to bilateral relations is essential in navigating the complexities of global challenges."

Proper management of China-U.S. relations is deemed crucial, and it is considered the world's most important bilateral relationship. As stated, it "serves the common interests of both countries and injects greater certainty and stability into the world."