Trump Praises ‘Total Reset’ in Geneva Talks with China Amid Trade War De-escalation

U.S. President Donald Trump announced that trade negotiations with China in Geneva have resulted in a “total reset” of relations, describing the talks as both “friendly and constructive.”

Posting on his Truth Social account, Trump said, “Great progress made! We want to see China open up to American business for the good of both nations.” While specific details were withheld, the talks mark the most significant thaw in U.S.-China tensions since his return to office.

The weekend meeting brought together Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. It was the first direct encounter between the two sides since tariff rates soared beyond 100%, crippling nearly $600 billion in bilateral trade and rattling global markets.

Held at the private residence of the Swiss UN ambassador, the talks were arranged discreetly, with both delegations arriving under heavy privacy as local Geneva residents went about their weekend routines.

The White House is aiming to cut the $295 billion trade deficit with China and pressure Beijing into liberalizing its economy. China, in turn, has demanded tariff relief and equal treatment on the world stage.

Xinhua News Agency labeled U.S. tariffs as destabilizing but acknowledged the Geneva talks as “a positive and necessary step.” Despite low expectations, both sides agreed the dialogue itself was a success.

Trump had hinted at lowering tariffs to 80%, down from his current 145% policy. China has reportedly been seeking the same 90-day tariff reprieve offered to other countries.

Swiss Economy Minister Guy Parmelin called the talks a step toward reducing global tensions, while WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala welcomed the meeting as a sign of possible resolution.