US and China Hold First Direct Trade Talks Since Trump-Xi Meeting
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer say they urged China's Vice Premier He Lifeng to honor commitments on rare earths and agricultural goods. Bessent said Washington wants a more balanced and fair economic relationship, while Chinese state media said Beijing raised concerns over US trade restrictions but that both sides agreed to expand cooperation. It's the first direct talks between the officials since presidents Trump and Xi met in Beijing in May, with another meeting expected in Washington in September.
