US and China Hold Economic Talks in Paris Ahead of Trump-Xi Summit

Top U.S. and Chinese economic officials, led by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Vice Premier He Lifeng, met in Paris to discuss trade issues ahead of President Donald Trump's planned visit to Beijing. The talks focused on tariffs, rare earth mineral exports, high-tech controls, and agricultural purchases, aiming to maintain the October 2025 trade truce and avoid escalating tensions. Analysts noted limited prospects for major breakthroughs amid time constraints and U.S. focus on the Iran conflict, with the meeting seen as a step to keep dialogue open before potential future summits.