China sends high-ranking representatives to US for talks on mutual trade and relations with DPRK

Beijing. February 8. Silkroadnews - China will send high-ranking representatives to the U.S. for talks on mutual trade and relations with the DPRK, “South China Morning Post” reports.
“Chinese State Councilor Yang Jiechi will be in the United States on Thursday and Friday at the invitation of US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang announced,” the report said.
China and the United States have expressed their readiness to support and strengthen contacts and exchange views on international and regional issues of mutual interest.
Jia Qingguo, dean of Peking University’s school of international studies, said Yang’s visit reflects China’s concerns about a trade war prospects.
“This is a sensitive time for China-US relations … communication is important in stabilizing the relationship. The Chinese side does not want to see all-out confrontation on trade, but it will respond in proportion to [the US’ move],” Jia said.
According to Wu Xinbo, director of Fudan University’s Center for American Studies, if the relationship worsens, China could consider cutting imports of agricultural products, aircraft and high-tech goods from the United States.
Jia said that Yang is also likely to discuss with his American counterparts steps to eliminate the threat from Pyongyang.