US President Donald Trump announced on Monday that he plans to postpone a crucial visit to China originally scheduled for late March, citing the ongoing conflict in Iran that requires his attention at home.
We've requested that we delay it a month or so, he told reporters at the White House, emphasizing his need to oversee the military efforts in the war.
The meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping was initially set between March 31 and April 2, following their last face-to-face discussions in October of the previous year.
Chinese foreign affairs spokesman Lin Jian confirmed that discussions are underway between the nations regarding the timing of Trump's visit.
The spokesperson also rejected any media claims relating the postponement to issues surrounding the critical Strait of Hormuz, highlighting that any such reports were inaccurate.
Despite previous comments suggesting a link between the Iran war and the delayed meeting, Trump assured that the decision was made solely to manage the wartime situation effectively.
I'm looking forward to being with him, Trump said of Xi. We have a very good relationship. He reiterated the importance of his presence in Washington during the ongoing conflict.
The delay comes at a time of rising friction between the US and China, fueled by the Iran war, as well as China's continued support of Iranian energy exports amid criticisms of US strikes.
Trump's comments also coincide with an announcement from US representatives about investigating trade practices among several nations, including China, after a recent Supreme Court ruling on tariffs.
Negotiations between the US and Chinese representatives have recently taken place in Paris, targeting a range of issues including investments and economic sanctions. While some consensus has been reached, concerns over trade practices persist.
