US President Donald Trump has announced plans to postpone a scheduled visit to China later this month, citing the ongoing Iran war as the primary reason for the delay.
Speaking to reporters at the White House on Monday, Trump said his administration had requested to push the trip back by around a month. He emphasised the need to remain in Washington to oversee developments related to the conflict.
“We’ve requested that we delay it a month or so,” he said, adding that his presence was necessary during the escalating situation.
The meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping had been slated to take place between 31 March and 2 April, following their previous in-person discussions in October last year.
Trump Prioritises Iran War Over China Diplomatic Engagement
The Iran war has taken centre stage in Washington’s foreign policy agenda, with rising tensions and disruptions to global oil supply posing economic risks, particularly in the United States.
Trump said the proposed delay was solely to ensure he could effectively manage the unfolding conflict. “I’m looking forward to being with him,” he said, referring to Xi. “We have a very good relationship.”
“There’s no tricks to it either,” Trump added. “It’s very simple. We’ve got a war going on. I think it’s important that I be here.”
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent also reinforced the reasoning behind the potential postponement, dismissing speculation that it was linked to trade disputes or requests for Chinese support in the Gulf.
“The President wants to remain in DC to coordinate the war effort… Travelling abroad at a time like this may not be optimal,” Bessent said.
US-China Talks Continue As Trade And Geopolitical Tensions Persist
In Beijing, foreign affairs spokesman Lin Jian confirmed that discussions between the two countries are ongoing regarding the timing and logistics of the visit.
Meanwhile, tensions between the United States and China have intensified in recent weeks, partly driven by the Iran conflict. Beijing, a key importer of Iranian energy, has criticised US and Israeli military actions in the region.
The latest developments follow remarks Trump made to the Financial Times, where he suggested the visit could be delayed if China did not assist in ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global energy shipments.
He also urged other nations to contribute to securing maritime transit in the area.
On the economic front, Washington recently announced plans to investigate trade practices in several countries, including China. The move comes after Trump’s flagship tariff policy was struck down by the Supreme Court in February.
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Officials from both nations have continued negotiations in Paris in recent days, covering issues such as investments, tariffs and sanctions.
Chinese trade representative Li Chenggang said the two sides had reached agreement on certain matters and would continue discussions. He also noted that US officials had briefed Chinese counterparts on changes to tariff measures.
According to Li, Chinese negotiators raised “serious concern” over Washington’s proposed investigations into its trade practices and called on the US to safeguard global economic stability.
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