First China-US Economic and Trade Consultation Meeting Begins in London

The first meeting of the China-US economic and trade consultation mechanism commenced in London on Monday. Vice-Premier He Lifeng attended the meeting alongside US representatives, following a recent phone call between the two countries' leaders.

The mechanism was established as part of a consensus reached during high-level talks in Geneva last month. Discussions under this framework may alternate between China, the US, or a third country by mutual agreement.

A UK government spokesperson welcomed the talks, emphasizing the importance of free trade and the mutual benefits of avoiding a trade war.