“Vice-Premier He Lifeng and I engaged in frank and detailed discussions regarding trade between the United States and China,” Bessent wrote on social media after their call.

“We will meet in person next week to continue our discussions.”

In its readout, China described He’s discussions with Bessent and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer as “candid, in-depth and constructive”, touching upon “key issues in bilateral economic and trade relations”.

01:41

China rebukes US for causing ‘unnecessary panic’ with remarks on rare earth controls

China rebukes US for causing ‘unnecessary panic’ with remarks on rare earth controls

“[The two sides] … agreed to convene a new round of China-US economic and trade consultations at the earliest opportunity,” state broadcaster CCTV reported.