World leaders meeting in Beijing this week for a summit on <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/will-sign-accord-backing-chinas-belt-and-road-initiative-switzerland-210910&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjCgOfLxeDhAhULSo8KHY8PAhcQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw07d5wX_sMgOF08GS4UGgOb">China's Belt and Road </a>initiative will agree to project financing that respects global debt goals and promotes green growth, according to a draft communique seen by Reuters.

The Belt and Road Initiative is a key policy of President Xi Jinping and envisions rebuilding the old Silk Road to connect China with Asia, Europe and beyond with massive infrastructure spending.

But it has proved controversial in many Western capitals, particularly Washington, which views it as merely a means to spread Chinese influence abroad and saddle countries with unsustainable debt through nontransparent projects.

The United States has been particularly critical of Italy`s decision to sign up to the plan last month, the first for a <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-becomes-the-first-g7-nation-to-join-chinas-belt-and-road-initiative-205117&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjCgOfLxeDhAhULSo8KHY8PAhcQFggLMAI&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw0cZEgFaTvKXJjeQP2vVx4Z">G7 nation</a>.

In an apparent nod to these concerns, the communique reiterates promises reached at the last summit in 2017 for sustainable financing - but adds a line on debt, which was not included the last time.

"We support collaboration among national and international financial institutions to provide diversified and sustainable financial support for projects," the draft communique reads.&nbsp;

"We encourage local currency financing, the mutual establishment of financial institutions, and a greater role of development finance in line with respective national priorities, laws, regulations and international commitments, and the agreed principles by the UNGA on debt sustainability," it added, referring to the United Nations General Assembly.

The word "green" appears in the draft seven times. It was not mentioned once in the summit communique from two years ago.

"We underline the importance of promoting green development," the draft reads. "We encourage the development of green finance including the issuance of green bonds as well as the development of green technology."

The Chinese government`s top diplomat, Wang Yi, said on Friday that the Belt and Road project is not a "geopolitical tool" or a debt crisis for participating nations, but Beijing welcomes constructive suggestions on how to address concerns over the initiative.

A total of 37 foreign leaders are due to attend the April 25-27 summit, though the United States is only sending lower-level representatives, reflecting its unease over the scheme.

The number of foreign leaders at the April 25-27 summit is up from 29 last time, mainly from China`s closest allies like Pakistan and Russia but also Italy, Switzerland and Austria.

China has repeatedly said Belt and Road are for the benefit of the whole world, and that it is committed to upholding globally accepted norms in ensuring projects are transparent and win-win for all parties.

"We emphasise the importance of the rule of law and equal opportunities for all," the draft reads.

World leaders meeting in Beijing this week for a summit on China's Belt and Road initiative will agree to project financing that respects global debt goals and promotes green growth, according to a draft communique seen by Reuters.

World leaders meeting in Beijing this week for a summit on China's Belt and Road initiative will agree to project financing that respects global debt goals and promotes green growth, according to a draft communique seen by Reuters. The Belt and Road Initiative is a key policy of President Xi Jinping and envisions rebuilding the old Silk Road to connect China with Asia, Europe and beyond with massive infrastructure spending. But it has proved controversial in many Western capitals, particularly Washington, which views it as merely a means to spread Chinese influence abroad and saddle countries with unsustainable debt through nontransparent projects. The United States has been particularly critical of Italy`s decision to sign up to the plan last month, the first for a G7 nation. In an apparent nod to these concerns, the communique reiterates promises reached at the last summit in 2017 for sustainable financing - but adds a line on debt, which was not included the last time. "We support collaboration among national and international financial institutions to provide diversified and sustainable financial support for projects," the draft communique reads. "We encourage local currency financing, the mutual establishment of financial institutions, and a greater role of development finance in line with respective national priorities, laws, regulations and international commitments, and the agreed principles by the UNGA on debt sustainability," it added, referring to the United Nations General Assembly. The word "green" appears in the draft seven times. It was not mentioned once in the summit communique from two years ago. "We underline the importance of promoting green development," the draft reads. "We encourage the development of green finance including the issuance of green bonds as well as the development of green technology." The Chinese government`s top diplomat, Wang Yi, said on Friday that the Belt and Road project is not a "geopolitical tool" or a debt crisis for participating nations, but Beijing welcomes constructive suggestions on how to address concerns over the initiative. A total of 37 foreign leaders are due to attend the April 25-27 summit, though the United States is only sending lower-level representatives, reflecting its unease over the scheme. The number of foreign leaders at the April 25-27 summit is up from 29 last time, mainly from China`s closest allies like Pakistan and Russia but also Italy, Switzerland and Austria. China has repeatedly said Belt and Road are for the benefit of the whole world, and that it is committed to upholding globally accepted norms in ensuring projects are transparent and win-win for all parties. "We emphasise the importance of the rule of law and equal opportunities for all," the draft reads.

In nod to debt concerns, China Belt and Road summit to urge sustainable financing

China will show off new warships including nuclear submarines and destroyers at a parade next week marking 70 years since it's navy's founding, a senior commander said on Saturday, as <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-report-progress-in-beijing-trade-talks-206635&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiOguuzgt7hAhXE6nMBHWxhBFwQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw2Sv5CgupavonOVJXZ4WClg">Beijing </a>flexes its increasingly well-equipped military muscle.

President Xi Jinping is overseeing a sweeping plan to refurbish the People's Liberation Army (PLA) by developing everything from stealth jets to aircraft carriers as China ramps up its presence in the South China Sea and around self-ruled Taiwan.

The navy has been a key beneficiary of the modernisation plan as China looks to project power far from the country's shores and protect its trading routes and citizens overseas.

Last month, Beijing unveiled a target of 7.5 per cent rise in defence spending for this year, a slower rate than last year but still outpacing China's economic growth target.

Deputy naval commander Qiu Yanpeng told reporters in the eastern city of Qingdao that Tuesday's naval parade - likely to be overseen by Xi himself, though China has not confirmed that - will feature 32 vessels and 39 aircraft.

"The PLA Navy ship and aircraft to be revealed are the Liaoning aircraft carrier, new types of nuclear submarines, new types of destroyers, as well as fighter aircraft," Qiu said, without giving details. "Some ships will be revealed for the first time."

The Liaoning, the country's first carrier, was bought second-hand from Ukraine in 1998 and refitted in China.

It's not clear if China's second carrier, an as-yet-unnamed ship developed and built purely in China, will also take part, but in the past few days, state media has run stories praising recent sea trials.

Around a dozen foreign navies are also taking part. While Qiu did not give an exact number, China has announced the parade would include ships from Russia, Singapore, India, Thailand and Vietnam - which frequently complains of Chinese military activity in the disputed South China Sea.

China's last naval battles were with the Vietnamese in the South China Sea, in 1974 and 1988, though these were relatively minor skirmishes.

Chinese navy ships have also participated in international anti-piracy patrols off Somalia's coast since late 2008.

Strong Navy 'Essential'

Qiu reiterated China's frequent stance that its armed forces are not a threat to anyone and that no matter what happens it will never "pursue hegemony".

"It is fair to say that the PLA Navy has not brought war or turbulence to any place," Qiu said.

But China has been scared by its past and needs good defences at sea, he added.

"A strong navy is essential for building a strong maritime country," Qiu said. "From 1840 to 1949, China was invaded by foreign powers from the sea more than 470 times, which caused untold suffering and deep wounds to the Chinese nation."

China has frequently had to rebuff concerns about its military intentions, especially as military spending continues to scale new heights.

Beijing says it has nothing to hide and has invited foreign media to cover next week's naval parade and related activities, including a keynote speech by navy chief Shen Jinlong, who is close to Xi.

Zhang Junshe, a researcher at the PLA's Naval Research Academy, told reporters after Qiu had spoken that inviting foreign navies to take part in the parade was a sign of China's openness and self-confidence, noting China had also done this for the 60th anniversary in 2009.

"New nuclear submarines and new warships will be shown - this further goes to show that China's navy is open and transparent," said Zhang.

China will show off new warships including nuclear submarines and destroyers at a parade next week marking 70 years since it's navy's founding, a senior commander said on Saturday, as Beijing flexes its increasingly well-equipped military muscle.

China will show off new warships including nuclear submarines and destroyers at a parade next week marking 70 years since it's navy's founding, a senior commander said on Saturday, as Beijing flexes its increasingly well-equipped military muscle. President Xi Jinping is overseeing a sweeping plan to refurbish the People's Liberation Army (PLA) by developing everything from stealth jets to aircraft carriers as China ramps up its presence in the South China Sea and around self-ruled Taiwan. The navy has been a key beneficiary of the modernisation plan as China looks to project power far from the country's shores and protect its trading routes and citizens overseas. Last month, Beijing unveiled a target of 7.5 per cent rise in defence spending for this year, a slower rate than last year but still outpacing China's economic growth target. Deputy naval commander Qiu Yanpeng told reporters in the eastern city of Qingdao that Tuesday's naval parade - likely to be overseen by Xi himself, though China has not confirmed that - will feature 32 vessels and 39 aircraft. "The PLA Navy ship and aircraft to be revealed are the Liaoning aircraft carrier, new types of nuclear submarines, new types of destroyers, as well as fighter aircraft," Qiu said, without giving details. "Some ships will be revealed for the first time." The Liaoning, the country's first carrier, was bought second-hand from Ukraine in 1998 and refitted in China. It's not clear if China's second carrier, an as-yet-unnamed ship developed and built purely in China, will also take part, but in the past few days, state media has run stories praising recent sea trials. Around a dozen foreign navies are also taking part. While Qiu did not give an exact number, China has announced the parade would include ships from Russia, Singapore, India, Thailand and Vietnam - which frequently complains of Chinese military activity in the disputed South China Sea. China's last naval battles were with the Vietnamese in the South China Sea, in 1974 and 1988, though these were relatively minor skirmishes. Chinese navy ships have also participated in international anti-piracy patrols off Somalia's coast since late 2008. Strong Navy 'Essential' Qiu reiterated China's frequent stance that its armed forces are not a threat to anyone and that no matter what happens it will never "pursue hegemony". "It is fair to say that the PLA Navy has not brought war or turbulence to any place," Qiu said. But China has been scared by its past and needs good defences at sea, he added. "A strong navy is essential for building a strong maritime country," Qiu said. "From 1840 to 1949, China was invaded by foreign powers from the sea more than 470 times, which caused untold suffering and deep wounds to the Chinese nation." China has frequently had to rebuff concerns about its military intentions, especially as military spending continues to scale new heights. Beijing says it has nothing to hide and has invited foreign media to cover next week's naval parade and related activities, including a keynote speech by navy chief Shen Jinlong, who is close to Xi. Zhang Junshe, a researcher at the PLA's Naval Research Academy, told reporters after Qiu had spoken that inviting foreign navies to take part in the parade was a sign of China's openness and self-confidence, noting China had also done this for the 60th anniversary in 2009. "New nuclear submarines and new warships will be shown - this further goes to show that China's navy is open and transparent," said Zhang.

China to show new warships as Beijing flexes military muscle on navy anniversary

China will show off new warships including nuclear submarines and destroyers at a parade next week marking 70 years since its navy's founding, a senior commander said on Saturday (April 20), as Beijing flexes its increasingly well-equipped military muscle.

The&nbsp;Belt&nbsp;and&nbsp;Road&nbsp;Forum&nbsp;will be a good opportunity for&nbsp;China&nbsp;to identify&nbsp;its&nbsp;direction&nbsp;and the&nbsp;policy&nbsp;framework&nbsp;within which they want to develop this very large initiative,&nbsp;IMF&nbsp;chief <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/i-reiterated-imfs-stand-to-support-pakistan-imf-chief-lagarde-on-bailout-aid-196452&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjz8eaL6szhAhUViXAKHTgPBW8QFggIMAE&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw1Y2wMVc4YfdS9ITHa3vqD5">Christine Lagarde</a> said in Washington, DC&nbsp;ahead of the World Bank-IMF&nbsp;Spring Meetings.

During an exclusive interview with the&nbsp;China&nbsp;Global Television Network (CGTN) on April 2, Lagarde expressed her expectations on the second&nbsp;Belt&nbsp;and&nbsp;Road&nbsp;Forum&nbsp;for International Cooperation, which is to be held in late April in Beijing.

The<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/imf-ceos-sound-warnings-as-leaders-gather-in-davos-191910&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjz8eaL6szhAhUViXAKHTgPBW8QFggRMAQ&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw1c15ADR4kYYoW56bPNmeJ3">&nbsp;IMF&nbsp;</a>chief&nbsp;said the world is short of investment in infrastructure and the&nbsp;Belt&nbsp;and&nbsp;Road&nbsp;Initiative is certainly welcome and encouraged as it focuses on the financing of infrastructure around the world.

"We have also encouraged and called the attention of Chinese authorities to the fact that those projects have to be adequate and appropriate for the countries' needs, that those financings have to be respectful of debt sustainability. We have also mentioned that the macro-economic&nbsp;framework&nbsp;of the countries has to be taken into account when those investments are taking place. So, it is a subtle balance between infrastructure needs and the financing to go with it," said Lagarde.

"With full respect of the countries' sovereignty, debt sustainability, macro-economic equilibrium, I think that the Chinese authorities themselves are now really paying attention to that," she added.

As for the upcoming&nbsp;Belt&nbsp;and&nbsp;Road&nbsp;Forum, Lagarde regards it a good opportunity for&nbsp;China, the beneficiary countries and international institutions.

"I believe it will be a very good opportunity for the authorities in&nbsp;China&nbsp;to really identify their&nbsp;direction, the&nbsp;policy&nbsp;framework&nbsp;within which they want to develop this very large initiative and for the beneficiary countries and international institutions to also raise their voice as to the format and the&nbsp;framework&nbsp;within which those investments will be efficient and will be sustainable," said Lagarde.

The BRI, proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2013, aims to build a trade and infrastructure network connecting Asia with Europe, Africa and beyond.

The Belt and Road Forum will be a good opportunity for China to identify its direction and the policy framework within which they want to develop this very large initiative, IMF chief Christine Lagarde said in Washington, DC ahead of the World Bank-IMF Spring Meetings.

The Belt and Road Forum will be a good opportunity for China to identify its direction and the policy framework within which they want to develop this very large initiative, IMF chief Christine Lagarde said in Washington, DC ahead of the World Bank-IMF Spring Meetings. During an exclusive interview with the China Global Television Network (CGTN) on April 2, Lagarde expressed her expectations on the second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation, which is to be held in late April in Beijing. The IMF chief said the world is short of investment in infrastructure and the Belt and Road Initiative is certainly welcome and encouraged as it focuses on the financing of infrastructure around the world. "We have also encouraged and called the attention of Chinese authorities to the fact that those projects have to be adequate and appropriate for the countries' needs, that those financings have to be respectful of debt sustainability. We have also mentioned that the macro-economic framework of the countries has to be taken into account when those investments are taking place. So, it is a subtle balance between infrastructure needs and the financing to go with it," said Lagarde. "With full respect of the countries' sovereignty, debt sustainability, macro-economic equilibrium, I think that the Chinese authorities themselves are now really paying attention to that," she added. As for the upcoming Belt and Road Forum, Lagarde regards it a good opportunity for China, the beneficiary countries and international institutions. "I believe it will be a very good opportunity for the authorities in China to really identify their direction, the policy framework within which they want to develop this very large initiative and for the beneficiary countries and international institutions to also raise their voice as to the format and the framework within which those investments will be efficient and will be sustainable," said Lagarde. The BRI, proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2013, aims to build a trade and infrastructure network connecting Asia with Europe, Africa and beyond.

IMF chief lauds Belt and Road Initiative, says it focuses on financing global infrastructure

President Donald Trump on Thursday said the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-report-progress-in-beijing-trade-talks-206635">United States and China</a> were a month from a potentially "epic" trade agreement.

But, nine months into the two countries' trade war, the announcement was anti-climactic, as the White House had earlier stoked anticipation that Trump could announce a date for a summit to clinch a final deal with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping.

Global markets had also rallied in recent days, roused by the hope that an end to the skirmish between the world's two top economies was at last at hand.

"We will probably know over the next four weeks. It may take two weeks after that," Trump told reporters following a meeting with Beijing's trade envoy Liu He.

"It's looking very good."

The talks are due to continue for a third day on Friday. Trump had said as far back as February that a summit could occur within a month.

Despite Trump's rosy gloss on the talks on Thursday, US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer told reporters that major issues were left to be resolved.

Both US and Chinese officials have projected cautious optimism for months, but the last mile is proving to be the hardest, with the two sides reportedly tussling over whether and when Washington should remove the punishing tariffs it imposed last year on Chinese goods.

Trump in early 2018 launched a trade war with China, seeking to slash that country's soaring trade surplus with the United States, end alleged unfair trade practices such as the theft of American technology and China's massive state intervention in markets.&nbsp;

Washington and Beijing since last year have imposed tariffs on more than $360 billion in two-way trade, biting into their manufacturing sectors as the world economy slows.

China has floated offers to make sizable purchases of US commodities and taken steps to show it will protect foreign intellectual property.

But Democrats have warned of the temptation to accept a superficial deal that does not extract profound changes to the Chinese industrial policies American officials have long denounced.

Trump reiterated Thursday however that, "if it's not a great deal, we're not doing it."

Chinese state media later carried a report which said<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-xi-jinping-calls-for-early-conclusion-of-us-trade-talks-report-208028"> Xi has called for the talks to conclude as soon as possible</a>.

"I hope the two sides of the economic and trade teams will continue to resolve both sides' issues of concern in the spirit of mutual respect, equality, and mutual benefit, and finish negotiations on the China-US economic and trade agreement document as soon as possible," Xinhua quoted Liu as saying, as he conveyed a message from Xi to Trump.

A tariff compromise?

A final sticking point appears to be when and how Washington will agree to lift the steep tariffs it has placed on more than $250 billion in Chinese imports.

Last month, Trump said the tariffs would stay in place for "a substantial period," although whether this would apply to both tranches of goods subjected to the new duties was unclear.

US officials demand that any agreement have teeth and Lighthizer, the US trade representative, has said tariffs offer crucial leverage should Beijing backslide on its commitments.

Gary Clyde Hufbauer, a former US trade official and senior fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics, said lifting the tariffs too early could encourage criticism from Democrats that he had gone soft in the negotiations.

"The White House response to this drama is to keep the tariffs and only to slowly lower the rate as the Chinese fulfil their commitments," Hufbauer told AFP.

"The Chinese strategy is to have them get rid of it," he said. "My guess is that something in between will be in the compromise."

Analysts say any agreement is likely to include banner announcements that China has agreed to increase purchases of American commodities like soybeans and fuel.

This could perversely serve to give Chinese state enterprises a greater market role while making US exporters more reliant on the Chinese government's purchasing decisions -- both possibly contrary to US objectives and interests.

William Reinsch, a trade expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies and former Commerce Department official for exports, pointed to Beijing's boycott of US soybean exports last year.

American producers could struggle to fill major new orders announced by Beijing, he said.

"The only way they can buy every bean is if we stop selling to everybody else and that puts us in an enormous position of vulnerability," he said.

President Donald Trump on Thursday said the United States and China were a month from a potentially "epic" trade agreement. But, nine months into the two countries' trade war, the announcement was anti-climactic, as the White House had earlier stoked anticipation that Trump could announce a date for a summit to clinch a final deal with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping.

President Donald Trump on Thursday said the United States and China were a month from a potentially "epic" trade agreement. But, nine months into the two countries' trade war, the announcement was anti-climactic, as the White House had earlier stoked anticipation that Trump could announce a date for a summit to clinch a final deal with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping. Global markets had also rallied in recent days, roused by the hope that an end to the skirmish between the world's two top economies was at last at hand. "We will probably know over the next four weeks. It may take two weeks after that," Trump told reporters following a meeting with Beijing's trade envoy Liu He. "It's looking very good." The talks are due to continue for a third day on Friday. Trump had said as far back as February that a summit could occur within a month. Despite Trump's rosy gloss on the talks on Thursday, US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer told reporters that major issues were left to be resolved. Both US and Chinese officials have projected cautious optimism for months, but the last mile is proving to be the hardest, with the two sides reportedly tussling over whether and when Washington should remove the punishing tariffs it imposed last year on Chinese goods. Trump in early 2018 launched a trade war with China, seeking to slash that country's soaring trade surplus with the United States, end alleged unfair trade practices such as the theft of American technology and China's massive state intervention in markets. Washington and Beijing since last year have imposed tariffs on more than $360 billion in two-way trade, biting into their manufacturing sectors as the world economy slows. China has floated offers to make sizable purchases of US commodities and taken steps to show it will protect foreign intellectual property. But Democrats have warned of the temptation to accept a superficial deal that does not extract profound changes to the Chinese industrial policies American officials have long denounced. Trump reiterated Thursday however that, "if it's not a great deal, we're not doing it." Chinese state media later carried a report which said Xi has called for the talks to conclude as soon as possible. "I hope the two sides of the economic and trade teams will continue to resolve both sides' issues of concern in the spirit of mutual respect, equality, and mutual benefit, and finish negotiations on the China-US economic and trade agreement document as soon as possible," Xinhua quoted Liu as saying, as he conveyed a message from Xi to Trump. A tariff compromise? A final sticking point appears to be when and how Washington will agree to lift the steep tariffs it has placed on more than $250 billion in Chinese imports. Last month, Trump said the tariffs would stay in place for "a substantial period," although whether this would apply to both tranches of goods subjected to the new duties was unclear. US officials demand that any agreement have teeth and Lighthizer, the US trade representative, has said tariffs offer crucial leverage should Beijing backslide on its commitments. Gary Clyde Hufbauer, a former US trade official and senior fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics, said lifting the tariffs too early could encourage criticism from Democrats that he had gone soft in the negotiations. "The White House response to this drama is to keep the tariffs and only to slowly lower the rate as the Chinese fulfil their commitments," Hufbauer told AFP. "The Chinese strategy is to have them get rid of it," he said. "My guess is that something in between will be in the compromise." Analysts say any agreement is likely to include banner announcements that China has agreed to increase purchases of American commodities like soybeans and fuel. This could perversely serve to give Chinese state enterprises a greater market role while making US exporters more reliant on the Chinese government's purchasing decisions -- both possibly contrary to US objectives and interests. William Reinsch, a trade expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies and former Commerce Department official for exports, pointed to Beijing's boycott of US soybean exports last year. American producers could struggle to fill major new orders announced by Beijing, he said. "The only way they can buy every bean is if we stop selling to everybody else and that puts us in an enormous position of vulnerability," he said.

Trump gives US-China trade talks another four weeks

Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for the "early conclusion of negotiations" on the text of a trade deal with the United States, state media reported Friday.

The comments, carried by the Xinhua news agency, came as speculation mounted that the two sides were close to finalising an agreement to resolve their nine month-trade war.&nbsp;

The remarks were part of a message conveyed by Chinese vice premier Liu He at a meeting with US President Donald Trump.

"Under the current situation, the healthy and stable development of China-US relations is related to the interests of both Chinese and American people," said Liu, passing on remarks from Xi.

Washington and Beijing since last year has imposed tariffs on more than $360 billion in two-way trade, biting into their manufacturing sectors as the world economy slows.

Vice Premier and Beijing's trade envoy Liu flew to Washington this week to continue hammering out trade negotiations.

The two sides "reached a new consensus on important issues" in trade agreement documents, said Xinhua's report, citing Liu.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for the "early conclusion of negotiations" on the text of a trade deal with the United States, state media reported Friday.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for the "early conclusion of negotiations" on the text of a trade deal with the United States, state media reported Friday. The comments, carried by the Xinhua news agency, came as speculation mounted that the two sides were close to finalising an agreement to resolve their nine month-trade war. The remarks were part of a message conveyed by Chinese vice premier Liu He at a meeting with US President Donald Trump. "Under the current situation, the healthy and stable development of China-US relations is related to the interests of both Chinese and American people," said Liu, passing on remarks from Xi. Washington and Beijing since last year has imposed tariffs on more than $360 billion in two-way trade, biting into their manufacturing sectors as the world economy slows. Vice Premier and Beijing's trade envoy Liu flew to Washington this week to continue hammering out trade negotiations. The two sides "reached a new consensus on important issues" in trade agreement documents, said Xinhua's report, citing Liu.

China's Xi Jinping calls for early conclusion of US trade talks: Report

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hillary-give-each-other-cold-shoulder-at-bush-funeral-181923">Donald Trump</a> has said he called President Xi Jinping "king" of China. And that while Xi said he was not, he did not seem too upset by the title.&nbsp;

Trump told his tale at the National Republican Congressional Committee spring dinner in Washington on Tuesday.&nbsp;

"He said, 'But I am not king, I am president.' I said 'No, you're president for life, and therefore you're king'," Trump told his audience, prompting laughter, CNN reported.

"He said, huh. He liked that. I get along with him great," it quoted the US President as saying.

Trump, 72, visited Beijing in November 2017, just months before China's rubber-stamp legislature, the National People's Congress, dropped the two-term limit on the Chinese presidency in March.

The controversial move cleared the way for Xi, 65, to serve indefinitely as China's head of state, strengthening his grip on power.&nbsp;

China abolished monarchical rule in 1912 when the last emperor of the Qing dynasty, Pu Yi, was overthrown to establish the Republic of China.

Xi is also serving as General Secretary of the ruling Communist Party and Chairman of the Central Military Commission.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI) 
&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump has said he called President Xi Jinping "king" of China. And that while Xi said he was not, he did not seem too upset by the title. Trump told his tale at the National Republican Congressional Committee spring dinner in Washington on Tuesday.

US President Donald Trump has said he called President Xi Jinping "king" of China. And that while Xi said he was not, he did not seem too upset by the title. Trump told his tale at the National Republican Congressional Committee spring dinner in Washington on Tuesday. "He said, 'But I am not king, I am president.' I said 'No, you're president for life, and therefore you're king'," Trump told his audience, prompting laughter, CNN reported. "He said, huh. He liked that. I get along with him great," it quoted the US President as saying. Trump, 72, visited Beijing in November 2017, just months before China's rubber-stamp legislature, the National People's Congress, dropped the two-term limit on the Chinese presidency in March. The controversial move cleared the way for Xi, 65, to serve indefinitely as China's head of state, strengthening his grip on power. China abolished monarchical rule in 1912 when the last emperor of the Qing dynasty, Pu Yi, was overthrown to establish the Republic of China. Xi is also serving as General Secretary of the ruling Communist Party and Chairman of the Central Military Commission. (With inputs from PTI)

Trump says he called President Xi Jinping 'king' of China

Developed Western nations have long-term economic, technological and military advantages over China and the Communist Party has to realise that some people will use the West's strong points to criticise socialism's failings, President Xi Jinping said.

Since assuming power in China more than six years ago, Xi has ramped up efforts to ensure total party loyalty and discipline, including a sweeping crackdown on corruption, warning the party's very survival is at stake.

This year, which is marked by a series of sensitive anniversaries including three decades since the bloody crackdown on pro-democracy demonstrators in and around Tiananmen Square, has seen a further increase in calls for party loyalty.

On Monday, leading party theoretical journal Qiushi, which means "Seeking Truth", published lengthy excerpts for the first time from a speech Xi gave in early 2013 shortly after becoming party boss, warning of the dangers the party faces.

Citing Marx and Engels, Xi said socialism would inevitably vanquish capitalism, but that it would be a long historical process. China practises what it calls socialism with Chinese characteristics.

China must "fully appraise the objective reality of the long-term advantage Western developed countries have in the economic, scientific, and military fields, and conscientiously prepare for all aspects of long-term cooperation and struggle between the two social systems", Xi said.

The party also needed to "face the reality that some people compare the good qualities of Western developed nations with the insufficiencies of our country's socialist development and offer criticism of it", he added.

While the party has committed "big mistakes" like the Cultural Revolution when children turned on parents and students on teachers after Mao Zedong declared class war, the party's history is "generally speaking glorious", Xi said.

Those who criticise the revolution - which brought the Communist Party to power in 1949 - are simply trying to incite the overthrow of the party, he added.

But China needs to stick to its landmark economic reforms begun in 1978, without which the party could have fallen, Xi said.

The party "may even have faced a serious crisis, like the death of the party and the death of the country encountered by the Soviet Union and Eastern European countries".

But China had proved the naysayers wrong, Xi added.

"Both history and reality tell us that only socialism can save China. Only socialism with Chinese characteristics can develop China. This is the conclusion of history and the choice of the people."

Developed Western nations have long-term economic, technological and military advantages over China and the Communist Party has to realise that some people will use the West's strong points to criticise socialism's failings, President Xi Jinping said.

Developed Western nations have long-term economic, technological and military advantages over China and the Communist Party has to realise that some people will use the West's strong points to criticise socialism's failings, President Xi Jinping said. Since assuming power in China more than six years ago, Xi has ramped up efforts to ensure total party loyalty and discipline, including a sweeping crackdown on corruption, warning the party's very survival is at stake. This year, which is marked by a series of sensitive anniversaries including three decades since the bloody crackdown on pro-democracy demonstrators in and around Tiananmen Square, has seen a further increase in calls for party loyalty. On Monday, leading party theoretical journal Qiushi, which means "Seeking Truth", published lengthy excerpts for the first time from a speech Xi gave in early 2013 shortly after becoming party boss, warning of the dangers the party faces. Citing Marx and Engels, Xi said socialism would inevitably vanquish capitalism, but that it would be a long historical process. China practises what it calls socialism with Chinese characteristics. China must "fully appraise the objective reality of the long-term advantage Western developed countries have in the economic, scientific, and military fields, and conscientiously prepare for all aspects of long-term cooperation and struggle between the two social systems", Xi said. The party also needed to "face the reality that some people compare the good qualities of Western developed nations with the insufficiencies of our country's socialist development and offer criticism of it", he added. While the party has committed "big mistakes" like the Cultural Revolution when children turned on parents and students on teachers after Mao Zedong declared class war, the party's history is "generally speaking glorious", Xi said. Those who criticise the revolution - which brought the Communist Party to power in 1949 - are simply trying to incite the overthrow of the party, he added. But China needs to stick to its landmark economic reforms begun in 1978, without which the party could have fallen, Xi said. The party "may even have faced a serious crisis, like the death of the party and the death of the country encountered by the Soviet Union and Eastern European countries". But China had proved the naysayers wrong, Xi added. "Both history and reality tell us that only socialism can save China. Only socialism with Chinese characteristics can develop China. This is the conclusion of history and the choice of the people."

Chinese President Xi says West has long-term economic, military superiority

At least 26 firefighters died after hundreds were sent to tackle a forest blaze in remote mountains in southwest China's Sichuan province at the weekend, authorities said Monday.

Nearly 700 firefighters have deployed to battle the fire, which broke out on Saturday on steep terrain at an altitude of around 4,000 metres (13,000 feet) in Muli County, according to the ministry of emergency management.

Authorities lost contact with 30 firefighters on Sunday afternoon after a sudden change in wind direction ignited a "huge fireball", the ministry said in a statement.

Rescuers have found 26 bodies and are looking for the other missing crew.

President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang delivered instructions to respond to the emergency, the statement said.

A separate forest fire that lasted two days in the northern province of Shanxi was brought under control on Sunday, the official Xinhua news agency said.

More than 9,000 people were evacuated from their homes due to that blaze, which did not cause any casualties.

In May 1987, the deadliest forest fire in recent Chinese history killed 119 in northeast Heilongjiang province, injuring 102 and leaving 51,000 homeless. 
&nbsp;

At least 26 firefighters died after hundreds were sent to tackle a forest blaze in remote mountains in southwest China's Sichuan province at the weekend, authorities said Monday.

At least 26 firefighters died after hundreds were sent to tackle a forest blaze in remote mountains in southwest China's Sichuan province at the weekend, authorities said Monday. Nearly 700 firefighters have deployed to battle the fire, which broke out on Saturday on steep terrain at an altitude of around 4,000 metres (13,000 feet) in Muli County, according to the ministry of emergency management. Authorities lost contact with 30 firefighters on Sunday afternoon after a sudden change in wind direction ignited a "huge fireball", the ministry said in a statement. Rescuers have found 26 bodies and are looking for the other missing crew. President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang delivered instructions to respond to the emergency, the statement said. A separate forest fire that lasted two days in the northern province of Shanxi was brought under control on Sunday, the official Xinhua news agency said. More than 9,000 people were evacuated from their homes due to that blaze, which did not cause any casualties. In May 1987, the deadliest forest fire in recent Chinese history killed 119 in northeast Heilongjiang province, injuring 102 and leaving 51,000 homeless.

26 firefighters die battling China forest fire

China announced Monday it will launch a crackdown on all fentanyl-like substances from May 1 following US pleas for Beijing to control a drug fuelling a deadly opioid crisis.

China is suspected of being the main source of a powerful painkiller 50 times stronger than heroin that has caused record overdose deaths in the United States.

The issue has figured in trade talks between the United States and China, with Beijing promising to list any type of fentanyl when presidents Donald Trump and Xi Jinping agreed to a tariff truce in December.

"The US is concerned about all variants (of fentanyl), and it has all been resolved," Liu Yuejin, deputy director of the National Narcotics Control Commission, said at a press conference.

Designating all fentanyl analogues as controlled substances from May 1 aims to prevent smugglers from skirting the law by changing formulas to make drugs similar to the painkiller.

Liu outlined further work China would undertake, including inspections of key bio-medical and chemical industrial parks, cleaning up drug-related information online and cutting off criminals' online communication channels.

Chinese authorities will also urge courier companies to implement real-name registration for parcels, stepping up customs checks for high-risk international packages and enhancing enforcement co-operation. Sellers often ship fentanyl via express package services.

These are big steps which would have a significant impact, said Mike Vigil, former head of international operations for the US Drug Enforcement Administration.

China produces 85 per cent of the world's synthetic opioids, he said.

"Without China's co-operation the United States would not be able to put a dent in the current opioid epidemic that has taken so many lives," Vigil told AFP.&nbsp;

American officials attending the press conference declined to comment.

Wang Hesheng, deputy director of China's National Health Commission, indicated some analogues of fentanyl with legitimate medicinal, industrial and scientific purposes would not be included in the listing.

'Horror drug'

In December, Trump said the move against the "horror drug" could be a "game changer" because China has the death penalty for major narcotics offences.

The action comes as China's top trade negotiator, Vice Premier Liu He, prepares to return to Washington this week for more talks following discussions in Beijing last week.

"The Chinese government will step up co-operation with other countries including the US to join hands to tackle the global challenge fentanyl presents," Liu Yuejin said.

Still Liu repeated China's denial of responsibility for the US's deadly opioid crisis, saying US allegations of large scale trafficking from China "lack evidence and are contrary to the facts".

Admitting the existence of some cases of Chinese and American criminals working together, Liu said the "amount was extremely limited," and China "cannot possibly be the major source to the US".

Instead, Liu blamed American's abuse of prescription opioids, pharmaceutical industry influence, US pharmacies and doctors "excessive prescription", lax enforcement and American culture conflating drugs with "freedom, individuality and liberation".

"If the US really wants to resolve the fentanyl substance problem, they have more work to do domestically," he said.

'Extremely important' step

Vigil agreed that "corporate greed in the pharmaceutical industry" and overprescription of opioids had driven a lot of the epidemic in the US. &nbsp;

"If China stems the movement of fentanyl and other synthetic opioids to the United States it would have a huge impact, but it would not stop the epidemic," he said, adding American politicians need to take action.

The US Justice Department has indicted several Chinese individuals on allegations of manufacturing and distributing illegal drugs.&nbsp;

Asked about the cases, Liu said China was working with US law enforcement but had not found evidence that the individuals had broken Chinese law.

Diplomats invited to attend the briefing said Beijing's action marked an important step for combatting the drug trade.

"What China did today was extremely important," said Stefan Thorsell, a police and customs liaison officer for the Swedish embassy in Beijing.

"Even though Sweden is a small country we have problems, not as big as the United States, but we have problems with fentanyl as well," he said.

China announced Monday it will launch a crackdown on all fentanyl-like substances from May 1 following US pleas for Beijing to control a drug fuelling a deadly opioid crisis.

China announced Monday it will launch a crackdown on all fentanyl-like substances from May 1 following US pleas for Beijing to control a drug fuelling a deadly opioid crisis. China is suspected of being the main source of a powerful painkiller 50 times stronger than heroin that has caused record overdose deaths in the United States. The issue has figured in trade talks between the United States and China, with Beijing promising to list any type of fentanyl when presidents Donald Trump and Xi Jinping agreed to a tariff truce in December. "The US is concerned about all variants (of fentanyl), and it has all been resolved," Liu Yuejin, deputy director of the National Narcotics Control Commission, said at a press conference. Designating all fentanyl analogues as controlled substances from May 1 aims to prevent smugglers from skirting the law by changing formulas to make drugs similar to the painkiller. Liu outlined further work China would undertake, including inspections of key bio-medical and chemical industrial parks, cleaning up drug-related information online and cutting off criminals' online communication channels. Chinese authorities will also urge courier companies to implement real-name registration for parcels, stepping up customs checks for high-risk international packages and enhancing enforcement co-operation. Sellers often ship fentanyl via express package services. These are big steps which would have a significant impact, said Mike Vigil, former head of international operations for the US Drug Enforcement Administration. China produces 85 per cent of the world's synthetic opioids, he said. "Without China's co-operation the United States would not be able to put a dent in the current opioid epidemic that has taken so many lives," Vigil told AFP. American officials attending the press conference declined to comment. Wang Hesheng, deputy director of China's National Health Commission, indicated some analogues of fentanyl with legitimate medicinal, industrial and scientific purposes would not be included in the listing. 'Horror drug' In December, Trump said the move against the "horror drug" could be a "game changer" because China has the death penalty for major narcotics offences. The action comes as China's top trade negotiator, Vice Premier Liu He, prepares to return to Washington this week for more talks following discussions in Beijing last week. "The Chinese government will step up co-operation with other countries including the US to join hands to tackle the global challenge fentanyl presents," Liu Yuejin said. Still Liu repeated China's denial of responsibility for the US's deadly opioid crisis, saying US allegations of large scale trafficking from China "lack evidence and are contrary to the facts". Admitting the existence of some cases of Chinese and American criminals working together, Liu said the "amount was extremely limited," and China "cannot possibly be the major source to the US". Instead, Liu blamed American's abuse of prescription opioids, pharmaceutical industry influence, US pharmacies and doctors "excessive prescription", lax enforcement and American culture conflating drugs with "freedom, individuality and liberation". "If the US really wants to resolve the fentanyl substance problem, they have more work to do domestically," he said. 'Extremely important' step Vigil agreed that "corporate greed in the pharmaceutical industry" and overprescription of opioids had driven a lot of the epidemic in the US. "If China stems the movement of fentanyl and other synthetic opioids to the United States it would have a huge impact, but it would not stop the epidemic," he said, adding American politicians need to take action. The US Justice Department has indicted several Chinese individuals on allegations of manufacturing and distributing illegal drugs. Asked about the cases, Liu said China was working with US law enforcement but had not found evidence that the individuals had broken Chinese law. Diplomats invited to attend the briefing said Beijing's action marked an important step for combatting the drug trade. "What China did today was extremely important," said Stefan Thorsell, a police and customs liaison officer for the Swedish embassy in Beijing. "Even though Sweden is a small country we have problems, not as big as the United States, but we have problems with fentanyl as well," he said.

China lists fentanyl as controlled substance in US gesture

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on Monday played up her country's "important" ties with China despite tensions stemming from security concerns over Chinese telecom giant Huawei.

Ardern made the remarks as she met with Premier Li Keqiang at Beijing's Great Hall of the People on her first trip abroad since the Christchurch mosque attack.

The trip is also Ardern's first trip to China since she was elected in late 2017 -- an unusually long wait for the leader of a nation that signed a pioneering free-trade deal with Beijing in 2008.

Relations between Beijing and Wellington have been strained in recent months after New Zealand's intelligence agency last November halted plans for Chinese-owned telecom giant Huawei to participate in a proposed 5G network, citing "significant security risks".

But Ardern Monday said her visit to Beijing aims to "underline the importance" she placed on ties with China -- New Zealand's largest trading partner.

"It is one of our most important and far-reaching relationships," she said.

Ardern had repeatedly played down the spat with Huawei.&nbsp;

Last month she said New Zealand was in talks to minimise the security risks posed by using the Chinese telecom giant's equipment in 5G infrastructure, raising the prospect of a compromise on the issue.

Li urged both sides to aspire for the "greatest common denominator" and that "when each side's businesses invest in each other's businesses, they can enjoy a fair, transparent, convenient environment".

Ardern called for upgrading New Zealand's free trade agreement with China and said the country "welcomed high-quality foreign investment", her office said in a statement after the meeting.&nbsp;

The two leaders also discussed ways for New Zealand to participate in Beijing's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative, a global trade infrastructure programme that includes Pacific island nations that traditionally fell under the spheres of influence of Canberra and Wellington.

Ardern will also hold talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping Monday afternoon before returning home the next day.

Her short visit to China comes in the wake of a mass shooting at a mosque in Christchurch last month that left 50 people dead and prompted her to overhaul New Zealand's gun laws.&nbsp;

A longer trip had been planned, was but shortened to just a day following the attack.&nbsp;

Li expressed condolences for those killed in the shooting.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on Monday played up her country's "important" ties with China despite tensions stemming from security concerns over Chinese telecom giant Huawei.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on Monday played up her country's "important" ties with China despite tensions stemming from security concerns over Chinese telecom giant Huawei. Ardern made the remarks as she met with Premier Li Keqiang at Beijing's Great Hall of the People on her first trip abroad since the Christchurch mosque attack. The trip is also Ardern's first trip to China since she was elected in late 2017 -- an unusually long wait for the leader of a nation that signed a pioneering free-trade deal with Beijing in 2008. Relations between Beijing and Wellington have been strained in recent months after New Zealand's intelligence agency last November halted plans for Chinese-owned telecom giant Huawei to participate in a proposed 5G network, citing "significant security risks". But Ardern Monday said her visit to Beijing aims to "underline the importance" she placed on ties with China -- New Zealand's largest trading partner. "It is one of our most important and far-reaching relationships," she said. Ardern had repeatedly played down the spat with Huawei. Last month she said New Zealand was in talks to minimise the security risks posed by using the Chinese telecom giant's equipment in 5G infrastructure, raising the prospect of a compromise on the issue. Li urged both sides to aspire for the "greatest common denominator" and that "when each side's businesses invest in each other's businesses, they can enjoy a fair, transparent, convenient environment". Ardern called for upgrading New Zealand's free trade agreement with China and said the country "welcomed high-quality foreign investment", her office said in a statement after the meeting. The two leaders also discussed ways for New Zealand to participate in Beijing's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative, a global trade infrastructure programme that includes Pacific island nations that traditionally fell under the spheres of influence of Canberra and Wellington. Ardern will also hold talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping Monday afternoon before returning home the next day. Her short visit to China comes in the wake of a mass shooting at a mosque in Christchurch last month that left 50 people dead and prompted her to overhaul New Zealand's gun laws. A longer trip had been planned, was but shortened to just a day following the attack. Li expressed condolences for those killed in the shooting.

New Zealand PM touts 'important' China ties amid Huawei spat

Gravitas: World calls out China on mass detention of uighur muslims

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo voiced disappointment Wednesday after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-becomes-the-first-g7-nation-to-join-chinas-belt-and-road-initiative-205117">Italy joined China's "Silk Road" network</a> of transport and trade links, saying it was not in the ally's long-term interest.

Rome's populist government signed a "non-binding" protocol with visiting President Xi Jinping on Saturday that made Italy the first nation in the Group of Seven major economies to become part of the signature Chinese project.

"It's disappointing anytime any country begins to engage in behaviour and commercial interactions with China that aren't straight up," Pompeo told the House Foreign Affairs Committee in response after a lawmaker asked about the Italian decision.

"We're saddened because we think <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-belt-and-road-led-to-corruption-in-malaysia-report-189666">the people of those countries ultimately lose</a>," Pompeo said.

Under the Silk Road initiative, named for the ancient trading route across Eurasia, China is funding major rail, road and sea infrastructure as it seeks a big boost in international trade.

Pompeo, however, said that China practised "debt-trap diplomacy" with its state-owned or state-controlled enterprises looking after only their own interests.

"It may feel good in the moment — you think you got a cheap product or a low-cost bridge or road built. And in the end there will be a political cost attached to that which will greatly exceed the economic value of what you were provided," he said.

The United States has stepped up its warnings around the world about China's growing economic clout.

It has notably urged nations not to choose Chinese telecom giant Huawei to upgrade to fifth-generation communications, voicing privacy and security fears.

Critics say that the United States is mostly trying to shore up its own businesses which are facing tough competition, with Huawei selling phones that are substantially cheaper than Apple's.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo voiced disappointment Wednesday after Italy joined China's "Silk Road" network of transport and trade links, saying it was not in the ally's long-term interest.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo voiced disappointment Wednesday after Italy joined China's "Silk Road" network of transport and trade links, saying it was not in the ally's long-term interest. Rome's populist government signed a "non-binding" protocol with visiting President Xi Jinping on Saturday that made Italy the first nation in the Group of Seven major economies to become part of the signature Chinese project. "It's disappointing anytime any country begins to engage in behaviour and commercial interactions with China that aren't straight up," Pompeo told the House Foreign Affairs Committee in response after a lawmaker asked about the Italian decision. "We're saddened because we think the people of those countries ultimately lose," Pompeo said. Under the Silk Road initiative, named for the ancient trading route across Eurasia, China is funding major rail, road and sea infrastructure as it seeks a big boost in international trade. Pompeo, however, said that China practised "debt-trap diplomacy" with its state-owned or state-controlled enterprises looking after only their own interests. "It may feel good in the moment — you think you got a cheap product or a low-cost bridge or road built. And in the end there will be a political cost attached to that which will greatly exceed the economic value of what you were provided," he said. The United States has stepped up its warnings around the world about China's growing economic clout. It has notably urged nations not to choose Chinese telecom giant Huawei to upgrade to fifth-generation communications, voicing privacy and security fears. Critics say that the United States is mostly trying to shore up its own businesses which are facing tough competition, with Huawei selling phones that are substantially cheaper than Apple's.

US's Pompeo 'saddened' by Italy joining China's Belt and Road project

France urges China to respect the unity of the European Union

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - March 26, 2019

Chinese President Xi Jinping and his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-presiden-macron-hails-islamic-state-defeat-as-ending-a-major-danger-for-france-205080">French counterpart Emmanuel Macron</a> met for dinner in the south of France Sunday ahead of official talks with the host leader seeking to forge a united European front to contend with Beijing's advances.

"Very happy to welcome President Xi Jinping and his wife to France," Macron wrote in a tweet. "This visit will strengthen our strategic partnership and affirm the role of France, Europe and China towards a strong multilateralism."

Xi earlier arrived at the resort city of Nice accompanied by his wife Peng Liyuan to be welcomed by French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian and an honour guard.

Prior to meeting with Macron, Xi went to the nearby principality of Monaco, where he was received by Prince Albert II and where a government spokesman said talks would "address economic and environmental issues".

Xi, who has made a priority of establishing China as a global player, travelled from Italy, whose government became the first G7 state to sign up to his landmark new "Silk Road" infrastructure project, a massive undertaking to join Asia to Europe.

Washington and some EU states fear the huge project will give China too much sway. But Xi says it would be a two-way street of investment and trade.

Germany criticised Rome over its participation in the new Silk Road project.

"In a world with giants like China, Russia or our partners in the United States, we can only survive if we are united as the EU," Foreign Minister Heiko Maas told Welt am Sonntag newspaper.

"And if some countries believe that they can do clever business with the Chinese, then they will be surprised when they wake up and find themselves dependent."&nbsp;

The EU's German budget commissioner, Gunther Oettinger, told the Funke newspaper group that Europe should ensure it retains its autonomy and sovereignty when dealing with China.

He expressed concern that already "infrastructure of strategic importance... is no longer in European but in Chinese hands.

Le Drian had remarked Friday that Silk Road cooperation must go "in both directions".

Amid tight security, the Chinese and French first couples enjoyed a private dinner at Beaulieu-sur-Mer, near Nice, overlooking the Mediterranean.

They were due to have what a Chinese official termed "deep exchange of views on Sino-French, Sino-European relations and international and issues of mutual interest".

Xi's official visit to Paris on Monday will mark 55 years since Charles de Gaulle established diplomatic relations with Beijing.

A series of cooperation deals on nuclear power, aerospace and clean energy initiatives, some involving lucrative contracts, are expected to be signed.

On Tuesday, Macron and Xi will be joined by German Chancellor Angela Merkel and EU Commission chief Jean-Claude Juncker to explore "points of convergence" ahead of an EU-China summit in Brussels next month.

As well as addressing commercial cooperation and strategic issues with Xi, Macron has also been urged to deal with the case of Chinese former Interpol head Meng Hongwei.

Meng's wife has had no news of her husband since his arrest in China nearly six months ago and it emerged Sunday she has written to Macron asking him to bring up his disappearance with Xi.

He is believed to be facing corruption charges.

China as EU 'rival'&nbsp;

But Xi's visit poses a particular challenge for Macron, who wants to deepen EU ties with China while also pushing back against Beijing's growing global clout.

Europe's distrust of Chinese telecom giant Huawei, which is poised to become the dominant player in next-generation 5G mobile technology worldwide, is emblematic of the increasingly rocky relationship.

Monaco, which notably is eyeing a share of Chinese luxury tourism and has its own foreign policy, only last year signed an accord with Huawei to make the principality the first country entirely covered by the company's 5G mobile network by year-end.

Macron has lauded the EU's "awakening" to the challenges posed by China, which the bloc now labels a "rival" despite being Europe's biggest trading partner.

"The reality is that the world has changed significantly -- China is not the country it once was, and we are dealing with a very major partner," a Macron aide said ahead of Xi's visit.

The US is pressuring European allies to not use the Huawei technology, saying it creates a security risk by potentially letting Beijing snoop on sensitive communications.

But France has not ruled out using Huawei gear.

Beijing has accused Washington of trying to escalate President Donald Trump's trade battle with China.

'Reality very different'&nbsp;

Despite the many sources of friction, France wants to engage China as a closer partner as Washington makes a pointed withdrawal from global affairs under Trump's "America First" policy.&nbsp;

For example, Macron may seek more Chinese support of the French-backed G5 Sahel force fighting Islamist extremists in Western Africa.

China has been investing heavily in a diplomatic offensive across Africa, promising to help build infrastructure projects as part of the new Silk Road initiative.

Aides say Macron will press Xi to ensure such projects are fair and explore the participation of French companies amid allegations the deals could load African countries with unsustainable debt.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron met for dinner in the south of France Sunday ahead of official talks with the host leader seeking to forge a united European front to contend with Beijing's advances.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron met for dinner in the south of France Sunday ahead of official talks with the host leader seeking to forge a united European front to contend with Beijing's advances. "Very happy to welcome President Xi Jinping and his wife to France," Macron wrote in a tweet. "This visit will strengthen our strategic partnership and affirm the role of France, Europe and China towards a strong multilateralism." Xi earlier arrived at the resort city of Nice accompanied by his wife Peng Liyuan to be welcomed by French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian and an honour guard. Prior to meeting with Macron, Xi went to the nearby principality of Monaco, where he was received by Prince Albert II and where a government spokesman said talks would "address economic and environmental issues". Xi, who has made a priority of establishing China as a global player, travelled from Italy, whose government became the first G7 state to sign up to his landmark new "Silk Road" infrastructure project, a massive undertaking to join Asia to Europe. Washington and some EU states fear the huge project will give China too much sway. But Xi says it would be a two-way street of investment and trade. Germany criticised Rome over its participation in the new Silk Road project. "In a world with giants like China, Russia or our partners in the United States, we can only survive if we are united as the EU," Foreign Minister Heiko Maas told Welt am Sonntag newspaper. "And if some countries believe that they can do clever business with the Chinese, then they will be surprised when they wake up and find themselves dependent." The EU's German budget commissioner, Gunther Oettinger, told the Funke newspaper group that Europe should ensure it retains its autonomy and sovereignty when dealing with China. He expressed concern that already "infrastructure of strategic importance... is no longer in European but in Chinese hands. Le Drian had remarked Friday that Silk Road cooperation must go "in both directions". Amid tight security, the Chinese and French first couples enjoyed a private dinner at Beaulieu-sur-Mer, near Nice, overlooking the Mediterranean. They were due to have what a Chinese official termed "deep exchange of views on Sino-French, Sino-European relations and international and issues of mutual interest". Xi's official visit to Paris on Monday will mark 55 years since Charles de Gaulle established diplomatic relations with Beijing. A series of cooperation deals on nuclear power, aerospace and clean energy initiatives, some involving lucrative contracts, are expected to be signed. On Tuesday, Macron and Xi will be joined by German Chancellor Angela Merkel and EU Commission chief Jean-Claude Juncker to explore "points of convergence" ahead of an EU-China summit in Brussels next month. As well as addressing commercial cooperation and strategic issues with Xi, Macron has also been urged to deal with the case of Chinese former Interpol head Meng Hongwei. Meng's wife has had no news of her husband since his arrest in China nearly six months ago and it emerged Sunday she has written to Macron asking him to bring up his disappearance with Xi. He is believed to be facing corruption charges. China as EU 'rival' But Xi's visit poses a particular challenge for Macron, who wants to deepen EU ties with China while also pushing back against Beijing's growing global clout. Europe's distrust of Chinese telecom giant Huawei, which is poised to become the dominant player in next-generation 5G mobile technology worldwide, is emblematic of the increasingly rocky relationship. Monaco, which notably is eyeing a share of Chinese luxury tourism and has its own foreign policy, only last year signed an accord with Huawei to make the principality the first country entirely covered by the company's 5G mobile network by year-end. Macron has lauded the EU's "awakening" to the challenges posed by China, which the bloc now labels a "rival" despite being Europe's biggest trading partner. "The reality is that the world has changed significantly -- China is not the country it once was, and we are dealing with a very major partner," a Macron aide said ahead of Xi's visit. The US is pressuring European allies to not use the Huawei technology, saying it creates a security risk by potentially letting Beijing snoop on sensitive communications. But France has not ruled out using Huawei gear. Beijing has accused Washington of trying to escalate President Donald Trump's trade battle with China. 'Reality very different' Despite the many sources of friction, France wants to engage China as a closer partner as Washington makes a pointed withdrawal from global affairs under Trump's "America First" policy. For example, Macron may seek more Chinese support of the French-backed G5 Sahel force fighting Islamist extremists in Western Africa. China has been investing heavily in a diplomatic offensive across Africa, promising to help build infrastructure projects as part of the new Silk Road initiative. Aides say Macron will press Xi to ensure such projects are fair and explore the participation of French companies amid allegations the deals could load African countries with unsustainable debt.

Xi Jinping meets Macron as French president seeks united EU front on China

Chinese President Xi Jinping and his French counterpart <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/call-for-european-union-veto-as-germany-eyes-italys-china-deal-warily-205388">Emmanuel Macron were to hold talks in Paris</a> on Monday with the host leader seeking to forge a united European front in the face of Beijing's inroads on the continent.

Xi's visit marks 55 years since French leader Charles de Gaulle established diplomatic relations with Beijing.

A series of cooperation deals on nuclear power, aerospace and clean energy initiatives, some involving lucrative contracts, are expected to be signed.

On Tuesday, Macron and Xi will be joined by German Chancellor Angela Merkel and EU Commission chief Jean-Claude Juncker to explore "points of convergence" ahead of an EU-China summit in Brussels next month.

In an interview with the Nice-Matin newspaper after hosting Xi at a dinner on the French Riveria, Macron said the joint talks "would allow us to establish a common definition for a new international order."

Security was tight as Macron and his wife Brigitte hosted Xi and his singer wife Peng Liyuan for a private dinner at the resort village of Beaulieu-sur-Mer near Nice.

Macron offered Xi a French translation of Confucius dating from the 17th century, while Xi gave his host a precious vase depicting images of the two countries including a panda and a rooster.

Before the dinner Xi travelled to the nearby principality of Monaco, where he was received by Prince Albert II.

Xi had arrived from Italy, whose government became the first G7 state to sign up to his landmark new "Silk Road" infrastructure project, a massive undertaking to join Asia to Europe.

Italy's move came despite misgivings over the huge venture by other European nations wary of China's growing influence. Xi insisted it will be a two-way street of investment and trade.

EU Budget Commissioner Gunther Oettinger in a newspaper interview Sunday expressed "concern that in Italy and other European countries, infrastructure of strategic importance like power networks, rapid rail lines or harbours are no longer in European but in Chinese hands."&nbsp;

Germany's Foreign Minister Heiko Maas also voiced concern in an interview with the Welt am Sonntag newspaper.

"In a world with giants like China, Russia or our partners in the United States, we can only survive if we are united as the EU," he said.

"And if some countries believe that they can do clever business with the Chinese, then they will be surprised when they wake up and find themselves dependent."

Walking a tightrope

Macron will treat Xi to a military honour guard at the Arc de Triomphe war monument in Paris on Monday, before further talks at the Elysee Palace and a state dinner.

Xi's visit poses a particular challenge for Macron, who wants to deepen EU ties with China while also pushing back against Beijing's growing global clout.

Europe's distrust of Chinese telecom giant Huawei, which is poised to become the dominant player in next-generation 5G mobile technology worldwide, is emblematic of the increasingly rocky relationship.

Monaco, which is notably eyeing a share of Chinese luxury tourism and has its own foreign policy, last year signed an accord with Huawei to make the principality the first country entirely covered by the company's 5G mobile network by year-end.

The US, however, is pressuring European allies not to use the Huawei technology, saying it creates a security risk by potentially letting Beijing snoop on sensitive communications.

France has not ruled out using Huawei technology.

Beijing has accused Washington of trying to escalate President Donald Trump's trade battle with China.

As well as addressing commercial cooperation and strategic issues with Xi, Macron has also been urged to deal with the case of Meng Hongwei, Chinese former head of the France-based agency Interpol.

Meng's wife has had no news of her husband since his arrest in China nearly six months ago. It emerged Sunday she has written to Macron asking him to bring up his disappearance with Xi.

Meng is believed to be facing corruption charges.

Despite the many sources of friction, France wants to engage China as a closer partner as Washington makes a pointed withdrawal from global affairs under Trump's "America First" policy.&nbsp;

For example, Macron may seek more Chinese support for the French-backed G5 Sahel force fighting Islamist extremists in Western Africa, French presidential aides said.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron were to hold talks in Paris on Monday with the host leader seeking to forge a united European front in the face of Beijing's inroads on the continent.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron were to hold talks in Paris on Monday with the host leader seeking to forge a united European front in the face of Beijing's inroads on the continent. Xi's visit marks 55 years since French leader Charles de Gaulle established diplomatic relations with Beijing. A series of cooperation deals on nuclear power, aerospace and clean energy initiatives, some involving lucrative contracts, are expected to be signed. On Tuesday, Macron and Xi will be joined by German Chancellor Angela Merkel and EU Commission chief Jean-Claude Juncker to explore "points of convergence" ahead of an EU-China summit in Brussels next month. In an interview with the Nice-Matin newspaper after hosting Xi at a dinner on the French Riveria, Macron said the joint talks "would allow us to establish a common definition for a new international order." Security was tight as Macron and his wife Brigitte hosted Xi and his singer wife Peng Liyuan for a private dinner at the resort village of Beaulieu-sur-Mer near Nice. Macron offered Xi a French translation of Confucius dating from the 17th century, while Xi gave his host a precious vase depicting images of the two countries including a panda and a rooster. Before the dinner Xi travelled to the nearby principality of Monaco, where he was received by Prince Albert II. Xi had arrived from Italy, whose government became the first G7 state to sign up to his landmark new "Silk Road" infrastructure project, a massive undertaking to join Asia to Europe. Italy's move came despite misgivings over the huge venture by other European nations wary of China's growing influence. Xi insisted it will be a two-way street of investment and trade. EU Budget Commissioner Gunther Oettinger in a newspaper interview Sunday expressed "concern that in Italy and other European countries, infrastructure of strategic importance like power networks, rapid rail lines or harbours are no longer in European but in Chinese hands." Germany's Foreign Minister Heiko Maas also voiced concern in an interview with the Welt am Sonntag newspaper. "In a world with giants like China, Russia or our partners in the United States, we can only survive if we are united as the EU," he said. "And if some countries believe that they can do clever business with the Chinese, then they will be surprised when they wake up and find themselves dependent." Walking a tightrope Macron will treat Xi to a military honour guard at the Arc de Triomphe war monument in Paris on Monday, before further talks at the Elysee Palace and a state dinner. Xi's visit poses a particular challenge for Macron, who wants to deepen EU ties with China while also pushing back against Beijing's growing global clout. Europe's distrust of Chinese telecom giant Huawei, which is poised to become the dominant player in next-generation 5G mobile technology worldwide, is emblematic of the increasingly rocky relationship. Monaco, which is notably eyeing a share of Chinese luxury tourism and has its own foreign policy, last year signed an accord with Huawei to make the principality the first country entirely covered by the company's 5G mobile network by year-end. The US, however, is pressuring European allies not to use the Huawei technology, saying it creates a security risk by potentially letting Beijing snoop on sensitive communications. France has not ruled out using Huawei technology. Beijing has accused Washington of trying to escalate President Donald Trump's trade battle with China. As well as addressing commercial cooperation and strategic issues with Xi, Macron has also been urged to deal with the case of Meng Hongwei, Chinese former head of the France-based agency Interpol. Meng's wife has had no news of her husband since his arrest in China nearly six months ago. It emerged Sunday she has written to Macron asking him to bring up his disappearance with Xi. Meng is believed to be facing corruption charges. Despite the many sources of friction, France wants to engage China as a closer partner as Washington makes a pointed withdrawal from global affairs under Trump's "America First" policy. For example, Macron may seek more Chinese support for the French-backed G5 Sahel force fighting Islamist extremists in Western Africa, French presidential aides said.

Xi, Macron hold talks as France seeks European Union unity on China

Italy's participation in China's giant "Silk Road" infrastructure project sparked an outcry in Germany on Sunday, including a call for the European Union to block such deals with a veto.

"The expansion of transport links between Europe and Asia is in itself a good thing -- as long as the autonomy and sovereignty of Europe is not endangered," the EU's budget commissioner, Gunther Oettinger, told the Funke newspaper group.

But the German commissioner said he viewed "with concern that in Italy and other European countries, the infrastructure of strategic importance like power networks, rapid rail lines or harbours are no longer in European but in Chinese hands."

"Europe urgently needs a China strategy, that lives up to its name," he added.

Noting that EU member states were sometimes not adequately taking into account national and European interests, Oettinger suggested that " European veto right, or a requirement of European consent -- exercised by the Commission -- could be worth considering."

Oettinger's call came after German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas had sharp words for Rome over its deal with Beijing.

"In a world with giants like China, Russia or our partners in the United States, we can only survive if we are united as the EU," Maas told Welt is Sonntag newspaper.

"And if some countries believe that they can do clever business with the Chinese, then they will be surprised when they wake up and find themselves dependent.

"China is not a liberal democracy," he stressed.

Europe has been struggling to find a coherent strategy to deal with China. While the continent desperately needs to keep China on its side as a trade ally, it is also wary of the Chinese state's ambitions and growing global clout.

Italy on Saturday became the first G7 country to sign up for Beijing's new "Silk Road" project of a road, rail and sea transport and trade links stretching from Asia to Europe.

The project has raised eyebrows in Washington and in some EU capitals where critics say it will give China too much sway.&nbsp;

China's President Xi Jinping has said it would be a two-way street of investment and trade.

Following his visit to Italy, Xi stopped in Monaco on the French Riviera Sunday before meeting later in the evening with France's Emmanuel Macron.

Italy's participation in China's giant "Silk Road" infrastructure project sparked an outcry in Germany on Sunday, including a call for the European Union to block such deals with a veto.

Italy's participation in China's giant "Silk Road" infrastructure project sparked an outcry in Germany on Sunday, including a call for the European Union to block such deals with a veto. "The expansion of transport links between Europe and Asia is in itself a good thing -- as long as the autonomy and sovereignty of Europe is not endangered," the EU's budget commissioner, Gunther Oettinger, told the Funke newspaper group. But the German commissioner said he viewed "with concern that in Italy and other European countries, the infrastructure of strategic importance like power networks, rapid rail lines or harbours are no longer in European but in Chinese hands." "Europe urgently needs a China strategy, that lives up to its name," he added. Noting that EU member states were sometimes not adequately taking into account national and European interests, Oettinger suggested that " European veto right, or a requirement of European consent -- exercised by the Commission -- could be worth considering." Oettinger's call came after German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas had sharp words for Rome over its deal with Beijing. "In a world with giants like China, Russia or our partners in the United States, we can only survive if we are united as the EU," Maas told Welt is Sonntag newspaper. "And if some countries believe that they can do clever business with the Chinese, then they will be surprised when they wake up and find themselves dependent. "China is not a liberal democracy," he stressed. Europe has been struggling to find a coherent strategy to deal with China. While the continent desperately needs to keep China on its side as a trade ally, it is also wary of the Chinese state's ambitions and growing global clout. Italy on Saturday became the first G7 country to sign up for Beijing's new "Silk Road" project of a road, rail and sea transport and trade links stretching from Asia to Europe. The project has raised eyebrows in Washington and in some EU capitals where critics say it will give China too much sway. China's President Xi Jinping has said it would be a two-way street of investment and trade. Following his visit to Italy, Xi stopped in Monaco on the French Riviera Sunday before meeting later in the evening with France's Emmanuel Macron.

Call for European Union veto as Germany eyes Italy's China deal warily

Italy signed a preliminary accord with China on Saturday that makes it the first country of the Group of Seven industrialised nation to join the Chinese Belt and Road infrastructure project.

Around 30 parallel deals were signed on the sidelines of the visit to Rome by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-giuseppe-conte-hold-talks-on-elevating-china-italy-ties-into-new-era-205190">Chinese President Xi Jinping</a>, including 10 with Italian companies and others with ministries and public bodies.

Italian Deputy Prime Minister Luigi Di Maio said the deals were worth an initial 2.5 billion euros but had a potential value of 20 billion.

Here are details of some of the accords.

CDP, BANK OF CHINA

Italy's state lender Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP) signed an agreement with Bank of China to let it sell "Panda" bonds - debt sold by foreign entities to investors in mainland China.

CDP said it will issue bonds worth $744.5 million. CDP and Bank of China will also co-finance Italian companies for 4 billion renminbi. A CDP official told Reuters on Friday that the first tranche of Panda bonds will be issued in the coming weeks.

CDP, SNAM

CDP and Italian gas company Snam have signed a memorandum of understanding with the Chinese Silk Road fund (SRF) for cooperation on international investments in China and in the about 120 countries that have already signed up for the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Snam and SRF said they will consider possible cooperation in the natural gas sector -- pipelines, storage facilities, LNG infrastructure and biomethane plants.

DANIELI

Italian metals company Danieli has signed a deal to build part of a steel plant in China that will then be transferred to Azerbaijan.

TRIESTE AND GENOA PORTS 

China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) has signed two cooperation agreements with the authorities of Trieste's port and with the commissioner supervising the reconstruction of the bridge of Genoa that collapsed last year.

ANSALDO ENERGIA

Ansaldo Energia said it signed a deal with China United Gas Turbine Company (UGTC) for technology cooperation in the field of heavy duty gas turbines.

Ansaldo Energia has also been awarded a contract worth approximately 25 million euros to supply a AE94.2K gas turbine and syngas compressor train for Bengang combined cycle power plant, located in Benxi in northeast China.

SUNING

China's e-commerce group Suning, top shareholder of Italian Serie A soccer team Inter Milan, announced a deal with the Italian Trade Agency to boost Made-in-Italy exports to China.

INTESA SANPAOLO

Intesa Sanpaolo has signed a MoU with the Chinese city of Chindao to develop wealth management services for local clients through a wholly-owned company called Yi Tsai. Intesa aimed to sell its own financial products in Chindao in the near future, Intesa CEO Carlo Messina said.

ENI

Italian energy giant Eni has signed a MoU with Bank of China to secure a credit line.

FERROVIE DELLO STATO, AEROPORTI DI ROMA

Italy's railways group Ferrovie dello Stato, Atlantia's airport operator Aeroporti di Roma and the museums of sports car maker Ferrari have signed a commercial deal with China's biggest online travel agency Ctrip to develop Chinese tourism in Italy.

Italy signed a preliminary accord with China on Saturday that makes it the first country of the Group of Seven industrialised nation to join the Chinese Belt and Road infrastructure project.

Italy signed a preliminary accord with China on Saturday that makes it the first country of the Group of Seven industrialised nation to join the Chinese Belt and Road infrastructure project. Around 30 parallel deals were signed on the sidelines of the visit to Rome by Chinese President Xi Jinping, including 10 with Italian companies and others with ministries and public bodies. Italian Deputy Prime Minister Luigi Di Maio said the deals were worth an initial 2.5 billion euros but had a potential value of 20 billion. Here are details of some of the accords. CDP, BANK OF CHINA Italy's state lender Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP) signed an agreement with Bank of China to let it sell "Panda" bonds - debt sold by foreign entities to investors in mainland China. CDP said it will issue bonds worth $744.5 million. CDP and Bank of China will also co-finance Italian companies for 4 billion renminbi. A CDP official told Reuters on Friday that the first tranche of Panda bonds will be issued in the coming weeks. CDP, SNAM CDP and Italian gas company Snam have signed a memorandum of understanding with the Chinese Silk Road fund (SRF) for cooperation on international investments in China and in the about 120 countries that have already signed up for the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Snam and SRF said they will consider possible cooperation in the natural gas sector -- pipelines, storage facilities, LNG infrastructure and biomethane plants. DANIELI Italian metals company Danieli has signed a deal to build part of a steel plant in China that will then be transferred to Azerbaijan. TRIESTE AND GENOA PORTS China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) has signed two cooperation agreements with the authorities of Trieste's port and with the commissioner supervising the reconstruction of the bridge of Genoa that collapsed last year. ANSALDO ENERGIA Ansaldo Energia said it signed a deal with China United Gas Turbine Company (UGTC) for technology cooperation in the field of heavy duty gas turbines. Ansaldo Energia has also been awarded a contract worth approximately 25 million euros to supply a AE94.2K gas turbine and syngas compressor train for Bengang combined cycle power plant, located in Benxi in northeast China. SUNING China's e-commerce group Suning, top shareholder of Italian Serie A soccer team Inter Milan, announced a deal with the Italian Trade Agency to boost Made-in-Italy exports to China. INTESA SANPAOLO Intesa Sanpaolo has signed a MoU with the Chinese city of Chindao to develop wealth management services for local clients through a wholly-owned company called Yi Tsai. Intesa aimed to sell its own financial products in Chindao in the near future, Intesa CEO Carlo Messina said. ENI Italian energy giant Eni has signed a MoU with Bank of China to secure a credit line. FERROVIE DELLO STATO, AEROPORTI DI ROMA Italy's railways group Ferrovie dello Stato, Atlantia's airport operator Aeroporti di Roma and the museums of sports car maker Ferrari have signed a commercial deal with China's biggest online travel agency Ctrip to develop Chinese tourism in Italy.

Italy signs deals worth 2.5 billion euros with China

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte held talks in Rome on Saturday on jointly elevating the China-Italy relations into a new era and witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to advance the construction of the Belt and Road.

During their talks, Xi noted that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-becomes-the-first-g7-nation-to-join-chinas-belt-and-road-initiative-205117">China-Italy relations</a> are rooted in the history of the two countries' thousand-year-old exchanges, with strong public support.

In recent years, the two countries have continuously deepened their communication and cooperation in various fields, which helped each other's social and economic development, Xi said.

Calling China and Italy important strategic partners to each other, Xi urged both sides to view and handle the bilateral ties from a strategic height with a long-term perspective.

The two countries should take the opportunities of the 15th anniversary of the China-Italy comprehensive strategic partnership this year and the 50th anniversary of China-Italy diplomatic relations next year to jointly elevate bilateral relations into a new era, and allow their practical cooperation fruits in various fields better serve the two peoples, Xi said.

With similar development goals, China and Italy have strong complementarity in economy and bright prospect of cooperation, the Chinese president said.

China is willing to work with the Italian side to comprehensively expand and deepen bilateral ties, he said.

Xi encouraged China and Italy to enhance top-level design, consolidate political basis, promote high-level exchanges, increase dialogue between various departments and on all levels, and continue to render mutual understanding and support on issues of each other's core interests and major concern.

China and Italy were at the two ends of the ancient Silk Road, thus they have every reason to carry out cooperation on the Belt and Road, Xi said. "We adhere to the principles of extensive consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits, follow the principle of transparency and openness, and aim for cooperation of win-win results."

He urged the two countries to take the opportunity of the inking of the intergovernmental MoU on jointly building the Belt and Road to strengthen the alignment of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) with Italy's plan to develop its northern ports and the InvestItalia program, and promote mutually beneficial cooperation in all fields.

The two countries should increase convergence of interests, optimize and upgrade their cooperation, and achieve more early results in priority areas such as space technology, infrastructure construction, transport, environment and energy, Xi said.

China and Italy should also strengthen communication and coordination on macroeconomic policy and jointly push forward third-market cooperation in such fields as energy, finance and infrastructure construction, he said.

Xi urged the two countries to take the opportunity of the culture and tourism year, to be held in each other's country in 2020, to forge friendly bonds of their world heritage sites and increase exchanges and cooperation between their museums, at local levels, and in sports and other sectors.

China and Italy should also join hands in advocating trade and investment liberalization and facilitation, continue to strengthen communication on major issues such as the United Nations affairs, WTO reform, climate change and global governance, and safeguard multilateralism together, he said.

The Chinese president noted that China sticks to further opening up and welcomes Italian and other countries' enterprises to invest and start business in China.

"We also encourage Chinese enterprises, especially high-tech companies, to invest and develop in Italy, and regard Italy as an important partner in cooperation on science and technology innovation," Xi told Conte.

The Chinese government has always encouraged Chinese enterprises to conduct overseas cooperation according to business principles and international rules, and on the basis of abiding by local laws, Xi said, urging the Italian government to continue to provide good business environment for Chinese investors.

Calling China and the European Union (EU) constructors of world peace, contributors to global development and protectors of international order, Xi said the two sides should follow the trend of the times featuring a world of multi-polarization and economic globalization, and push for the construction of an open world economy.

He urged the two sides to accelerate the negotiations on a China-EU investment agreement, enhance the synergy of the BRI and the EU's development strategies, and boost communication and coordination on major international and regional issues.

Xi said he hopes that the Italian side would continue to play an active role in deepening China-EU dialogue and cooperation in all fields and promote independent and stable development of China-EU ties.

For his part, Conte said Xi's visit to Italy bears historic significance and will lead the Italy-China relations to a higher level.

Noting that the two countries have a thousand-year-old history of exchanges, the Italian prime minister said the two ancient civilizations have interwoven with each other, with long-standing exchanges in economy, trade and culture, which served as an important foundation for the long-term development of their friendly cooperation.

Italy attaches great importance to its relations with China, and is willing to deepen the Italy-China comprehensive strategic partnership and expand cooperation in such fields as economy, trade, energy, agriculture, culture, tourism and aviation, on the occasion of the upcoming 50th anniversary of their diplomatic ties, Conte said.

With a special geographical advantage in building connectivity, Italy is glad to seize the historic opportunity in joining the Belt and Road construction, Conte said, adding that he strongly believes that it will help fully explore the potential of Italy-China cooperation.

The prime minister said he is looking forward to attending the second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation, adding that Italy welcomes Chinese enterprises to invest in Italy and realize mutual benefit and win-win outcomes.

Italy stands firm in supporting multilateralism and free trade, and ready to closely communicate and coordinate with China so as to promote healthy and stable development of EU-China ties, he said.

After their talks, the two leaders witnessed the signing of multiple bilateral cooperation documents, including the MoU on jointly advancing the construction of the Belt and Road, and the document on the return of Chinese relics confiscated by Italy. They also paid a visit together to see the Chinese relics.

Xi arrived in Rome Thursday for a state visit to Italy, the first stop of his three-nation Europe tour, which will also take him to Monaco and France.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte held talks in Rome on Saturday on jointly elevating the China-Italy relations into a new era and witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to advance the construction of the Belt and Road.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte held talks in Rome on Saturday on jointly elevating the China-Italy relations into a new era and witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to advance the construction of the Belt and Road. During their talks, Xi noted that the China-Italy relations are rooted in the history of the two countries' thousand-year-old exchanges, with strong public support. In recent years, the two countries have continuously deepened their communication and cooperation in various fields, which helped each other's social and economic development, Xi said. Calling China and Italy important strategic partners to each other, Xi urged both sides to view and handle the bilateral ties from a strategic height with a long-term perspective. The two countries should take the opportunities of the 15th anniversary of the China-Italy comprehensive strategic partnership this year and the 50th anniversary of China-Italy diplomatic relations next year to jointly elevate bilateral relations into a new era, and allow their practical cooperation fruits in various fields better serve the two peoples, Xi said. With similar development goals, China and Italy have strong complementarity in economy and bright prospect of cooperation, the Chinese president said. China is willing to work with the Italian side to comprehensively expand and deepen bilateral ties, he said. Xi encouraged China and Italy to enhance top-level design, consolidate political basis, promote high-level exchanges, increase dialogue between various departments and on all levels, and continue to render mutual understanding and support on issues of each other's core interests and major concern. China and Italy were at the two ends of the ancient Silk Road, thus they have every reason to carry out cooperation on the Belt and Road, Xi said. "We adhere to the principles of extensive consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits, follow the principle of transparency and openness, and aim for cooperation of win-win results." He urged the two countries to take the opportunity of the inking of the intergovernmental MoU on jointly building the Belt and Road to strengthen the alignment of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) with Italy's plan to develop its northern ports and the InvestItalia program, and promote mutually beneficial cooperation in all fields. The two countries should increase convergence of interests, optimize and upgrade their cooperation, and achieve more early results in priority areas such as space technology, infrastructure construction, transport, environment and energy, Xi said. China and Italy should also strengthen communication and coordination on macroeconomic policy and jointly push forward third-market cooperation in such fields as energy, finance and infrastructure construction, he said. Xi urged the two countries to take the opportunity of the culture and tourism year, to be held in each other's country in 2020, to forge friendly bonds of their world heritage sites and increase exchanges and cooperation between their museums, at local levels, and in sports and other sectors. China and Italy should also join hands in advocating trade and investment liberalization and facilitation, continue to strengthen communication on major issues such as the United Nations affairs, WTO reform, climate change and global governance, and safeguard multilateralism together, he said. The Chinese president noted that China sticks to further opening up and welcomes Italian and other countries' enterprises to invest and start business in China. "We also encourage Chinese enterprises, especially high-tech companies, to invest and develop in Italy, and regard Italy as an important partner in cooperation on science and technology innovation," Xi told Conte. The Chinese government has always encouraged Chinese enterprises to conduct overseas cooperation according to business principles and international rules, and on the basis of abiding by local laws, Xi said, urging the Italian government to continue to provide good business environment for Chinese investors. Calling China and the European Union (EU) constructors of world peace, contributors to global development and protectors of international order, Xi said the two sides should follow the trend of the times featuring a world of multi-polarization and economic globalization, and push for the construction of an open world economy. He urged the two sides to accelerate the negotiations on a China-EU investment agreement, enhance the synergy of the BRI and the EU's development strategies, and boost communication and coordination on major international and regional issues. Xi said he hopes that the Italian side would continue to play an active role in deepening China-EU dialogue and cooperation in all fields and promote independent and stable development of China-EU ties. For his part, Conte said Xi's visit to Italy bears historic significance and will lead the Italy-China relations to a higher level. Noting that the two countries have a thousand-year-old history of exchanges, the Italian prime minister said the two ancient civilizations have interwoven with each other, with long-standing exchanges in economy, trade and culture, which served as an important foundation for the long-term development of their friendly cooperation. Italy attaches great importance to its relations with China, and is willing to deepen the Italy-China comprehensive strategic partnership and expand cooperation in such fields as economy, trade, energy, agriculture, culture, tourism and aviation, on the occasion of the upcoming 50th anniversary of their diplomatic ties, Conte said. With a special geographical advantage in building connectivity, Italy is glad to seize the historic opportunity in joining the Belt and Road construction, Conte said, adding that he strongly believes that it will help fully explore the potential of Italy-China cooperation. The prime minister said he is looking forward to attending the second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation, adding that Italy welcomes Chinese enterprises to invest in Italy and realize mutual benefit and win-win outcomes. Italy stands firm in supporting multilateralism and free trade, and ready to closely communicate and coordinate with China so as to promote healthy and stable development of EU-China ties, he said. After their talks, the two leaders witnessed the signing of multiple bilateral cooperation documents, including the MoU on jointly advancing the construction of the Belt and Road, and the document on the return of Chinese relics confiscated by Italy. They also paid a visit together to see the Chinese relics. Xi arrived in Rome Thursday for a state visit to Italy, the first stop of his three-nation Europe tour, which will also take him to Monaco and France.

Xi Jinping, Giuseppe Conte hold talks on elevating China-Italy ties into new era

Italy moves to join China's Belt and Road Initiative; Xi Jinping ends his Italy visit

Senior US officials will visit Beijing for a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-team-has-no-plan-to-go-to-china-for-trade-talks-official-202115">new round of trade war talks</a> on March 28-29, followed by a trip to the United States by China's top negotiator in April, the Chinese commerce ministry said Thursday.

The back-to-back trips come as Washington and Beijing battle over the final shape of a trade deal, with American officials demanding profound changes to Chinese industrial policy.

US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin are returning to the Chinese capital next week, commerce ministry spokesman Gao Feng said at a weekly briefing.

After their visit, Chinese Vice Premier Liu He will head to the United States in April to continue the negotiations, Gao said.

President Donald Trump warned Wednesday that US tariffs on Chinese imports could remain in place for a "substantial period", dampening hopes that an agreement would see them lifted soon.

Over the last eight months, the United States and China have slapped tariffs on more than $360 billion in two-way goods trade, weighing on the manufacturing sectors in both countries.

On Friday, China's rubber-stamp parliament approved a foreign investment law to strengthen protections for intellectual property -- a central US grievance -- but critics said the bill was rammed through without sufficient time for input from businesses.

The law was adopted barely three months after a first draft was debated, an unusually quick turnaround for the legislature, which meets once a year.

Unilateral tariffs

Beijing has also expressed willingness to increase purchases of American commodities such as energy and soybeans.

But analysts say Chinese officials will be reluctant to accede to demands that could weaken the Communist Party's hold on power -- such as fully exposing state enterprises to market forces.

Trump initially said he expected to seal any final bargain at a summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping later this month but that deadline has been pushed back as momentum in the talks has slowed.

US negotiators have insisted that any agreement have teeth -- including the ability to impose tariffs unilaterally should China backslide on any commitments to end alleged unfair trade practices.

"We have to make sure that if we do the deal with China, that China lives by the deal," Trump told reporters at the White House Wednesday.

He also said the talks with Beijing were "coming along nicely".

Despite Trump's trade wars, the US trade deficit with China last year hit a record, as American consumers drew in foreign-made goods while weakened US sales of agricultural commodities weighed on American exports.

Senior US officials will visit Beijing for a new round of trade war talks on March 28-29, followed by a trip to the United States by China's top negotiator in April, the Chinese commerce ministry said Thursday.

Senior US officials will visit Beijing for a new round of trade war talks on March 28-29, followed by a trip to the United States by China's top negotiator in April, the Chinese commerce ministry said Thursday. The back-to-back trips come as Washington and Beijing battle over the final shape of a trade deal, with American officials demanding profound changes to Chinese industrial policy. US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin are returning to the Chinese capital next week, commerce ministry spokesman Gao Feng said at a weekly briefing. After their visit, Chinese Vice Premier Liu He will head to the United States in April to continue the negotiations, Gao said. President Donald Trump warned Wednesday that US tariffs on Chinese imports could remain in place for a "substantial period", dampening hopes that an agreement would see them lifted soon. Over the last eight months, the United States and China have slapped tariffs on more than $360 billion in two-way goods trade, weighing on the manufacturing sectors in both countries. On Friday, China's rubber-stamp parliament approved a foreign investment law to strengthen protections for intellectual property -- a central US grievance -- but critics said the bill was rammed through without sufficient time for input from businesses. The law was adopted barely three months after a first draft was debated, an unusually quick turnaround for the legislature, which meets once a year. Unilateral tariffs Beijing has also expressed willingness to increase purchases of American commodities such as energy and soybeans. But analysts say Chinese officials will be reluctant to accede to demands that could weaken the Communist Party's hold on power -- such as fully exposing state enterprises to market forces. Trump initially said he expected to seal any final bargain at a summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping later this month but that deadline has been pushed back as momentum in the talks has slowed. US negotiators have insisted that any agreement have teeth -- including the ability to impose tariffs unilaterally should China backslide on any commitments to end alleged unfair trade practices. "We have to make sure that if we do the deal with China, that China lives by the deal," Trump told reporters at the White House Wednesday. He also said the talks with Beijing were "coming along nicely". Despite Trump's trade wars, the US trade deficit with China last year hit a record, as American consumers drew in foreign-made goods while weakened US sales of agricultural commodities weighed on American exports.

US trade negotiators to visit China on March 28-29

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China has lodged a diplomatic protest with the United States after Washington sanctioned two Chinese shipping companies for doing business with North Korea, the foreign ministry said Friday.

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India has been one of the fastest growing large economies in the world, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has said, asserting that the country has carried out several key reforms in the last five years, but more needs to be done.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-new-silk-road-gets-bumpy-as-xi-jinping-visits-italy-204877">China's new Silk Road gets bumpy as Xi Jinping visits Italy</a>

Chinese President Xi Jinping kicked off a whistlestop European tour in Rome on Friday amid growing Western unease over Italy joining the ever-expanding Asian giant's new Silk Road project.

&nbsp;

Any attempt by Pakistan to engage with Hurriyat will not be taken lightly: India Indian External Affairs Minister spokesperson on Friday said that India has decided to not send any representative to Pakistan National Day reception in New Delhi after Islamabad extended invitation to Hurriyat leaders.

Any attempt by Pakistan to engage with Hurriyat will not be taken lightly: India Indian External Affairs Minister spokesperson on Friday said that India has decided to not send any representative to Pakistan National Day reception in New Delhi after Islamabad extended invitation to Hurriyat leaders. Trump's unfortunate statement on Golan Heights brings region to edge of new crisis: Erdogan Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Friday warned US President Donald Trump's pledge to recognise Israel's disputed annexation of the Golan Heights would risk a "new crisis". Video: China protests US sanctions on shipping firms China has lodged a diplomatic protest with the United States after Washington sanctioned two Chinese shipping companies for doing business with North Korea, the foreign ministry said Friday. India one of world's fastest-growing large economies: IMF India has been one of the fastest growing large economies in the world, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has said, asserting that the country has carried out several key reforms in the last five years, but more needs to be done. China's new Silk Road gets bumpy as Xi Jinping visits Italy Chinese President Xi Jinping kicked off a whistlestop European tour in Rome on Friday amid growing Western unease over Italy joining the ever-expanding Asian giant's new Silk Road project.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Chinese President Xi Jinping kicked off a whistlestop European tour in Rome on Friday amid growing Western unease over Italy joining the ever-expanding Asian giant's new Silk Road project.

Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte is to sign a memorandum of understanding with Xi on Saturday for Italy to join the $1 trillion Belt and Road Initiative, the first G7 member to do so, despite apparent divisions within the ruling coalition.

Italy on Friday rolled out the red carpet for Xi, who met his Italian counterpart Sergio Mattarella amid great pomp, and was due to head to parliament in the afternoon.

Around 1,000 extra police have been deployed around Rome for the state visit before Xi heads to Palermo, where his singer wife Peng Liyuan reportedly wants to see the Teatro Massimo opera house.&nbsp;

In what some perceived as a snub, Italy's far-right Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini said he would not attend Saturday's state dinner for Xi at Mattarella's Quirinal Palace.

Salvini has said Italy would be "no-one's colony" and urged caution about using telecom giant Huawei's next-generation 5G mobile technology, while coalition partner Luigi Di Maio is keener for Chinese partnerships.

The United States has warned European allies that Huawei could use its 5G technology as a "backdoor" for spying, while China has lashed out at "immoral" attacks.

NATO member Italy's plan to join China's ambitious maritime, rail and road venture, which critics warn mainly benefits Chinese firms, has raised eyebrows among Western allies and within Italy.

"Today we say 'Italy first' in trade relations, while remaining US allies, in NATO and in the EU," Deputy Prime Minister Di Maio of the anti-establishment Five Star Movement said on the sidelines of a China-Italy business forum on Friday.

Allies' concerns about 5G could be allayed by strengthening the Italian government's so-called 'golden powers' to keep control of strategic industries and infrastructure, Di Maio said.

- 'Trojan horse' - 
Debt-ridden Italy is technically in recession and keen to have more business with China.

White House official Garrett Marquis last week tweeted that there was "no need" for Italy to endorse "China's infrastructure vanity project".

Xi's visit comes a week after the European Union released a 10-point plan outlining a shift to more assertive relations with Beijing, warning that China was a "rival" to the bloc as well as its biggest trading partner.

France on Thursday announced that President Emmanuel Macron will hold trade and climate talks on Tuesday with Xi, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker.

As he arrived for the EU summit in Brussels, Macron welcomed what he called Europe's "awakening" to the challenge posed by China.

But his office struck a more conciliatory tone in announcing Tuesday's talks, saying it was an opportunity to explain Europe's strategy and seek "points of convergence between Europe and China".

The meeting comes ahead of a China-EU summit in Brussels next month, as the bloc struggles to forge Europe-wide China policies.

- Strategic ports - 
Beijing is particularly interested in investing in Italian ports to help funnel its products into Europe, amid warnings that Rome must avoid the model of the Greek port of Piraeus, which was taken over by Chinese shipping giant Cosco in 2016.

Supporters of the non-binding MoU said that it will lead to China complying with European Union standards, including on the environment and intellectual property, and cannot be compared to debt-inducing deals Beijing has signed with developing countries.

Despite apparent warming ties, Xi is not expected to meet Pope Francis.&nbsp;

The Vatican has diplomatic relations with Taiwan and not Beijing, so the encounter would be unlikely despite an agreement on appointing bishops in China signed last year.

Xi heads to Monaco on Sunday and then on to France to cap his European tour.

Chinese President Xi Jinping kicked off a whistlestop European tour in Rome on Friday amid growing Western unease over Italy joining the ever-expanding Asian giant's new Silk Road project.

Chinese President Xi Jinping kicked off a whistlestop European tour in Rome on Friday amid growing Western unease over Italy joining the ever-expanding Asian giant's new Silk Road project. Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte is to sign a memorandum of understanding with Xi on Saturday for Italy to join the $1 trillion Belt and Road Initiative, the first G7 member to do so, despite apparent divisions within the ruling coalition. Italy on Friday rolled out the red carpet for Xi, who met his Italian counterpart Sergio Mattarella amid great pomp, and was due to head to parliament in the afternoon. Around 1,000 extra police have been deployed around Rome for the state visit before Xi heads to Palermo, where his singer wife Peng Liyuan reportedly wants to see the Teatro Massimo opera house. In what some perceived as a snub, Italy's far-right Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini said he would not attend Saturday's state dinner for Xi at Mattarella's Quirinal Palace. Salvini has said Italy would be "no-one's colony" and urged caution about using telecom giant Huawei's next-generation 5G mobile technology, while coalition partner Luigi Di Maio is keener for Chinese partnerships. The United States has warned European allies that Huawei could use its 5G technology as a "backdoor" for spying, while China has lashed out at "immoral" attacks. NATO member Italy's plan to join China's ambitious maritime, rail and road venture, which critics warn mainly benefits Chinese firms, has raised eyebrows among Western allies and within Italy. "Today we say 'Italy first' in trade relations, while remaining US allies, in NATO and in the EU," Deputy Prime Minister Di Maio of the anti-establishment Five Star Movement said on the sidelines of a China-Italy business forum on Friday. Allies' concerns about 5G could be allayed by strengthening the Italian government's so-called 'golden powers' to keep control of strategic industries and infrastructure, Di Maio said. - 'Trojan horse' - Debt-ridden Italy is technically in recession and keen to have more business with China. White House official Garrett Marquis last week tweeted that there was "no need" for Italy to endorse "China's infrastructure vanity project". Xi's visit comes a week after the European Union released a 10-point plan outlining a shift to more assertive relations with Beijing, warning that China was a "rival" to the bloc as well as its biggest trading partner. France on Thursday announced that President Emmanuel Macron will hold trade and climate talks on Tuesday with Xi, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker. As he arrived for the EU summit in Brussels, Macron welcomed what he called Europe's "awakening" to the challenge posed by China. But his office struck a more conciliatory tone in announcing Tuesday's talks, saying it was an opportunity to explain Europe's strategy and seek "points of convergence between Europe and China". The meeting comes ahead of a China-EU summit in Brussels next month, as the bloc struggles to forge Europe-wide China policies. - Strategic ports - Beijing is particularly interested in investing in Italian ports to help funnel its products into Europe, amid warnings that Rome must avoid the model of the Greek port of Piraeus, which was taken over by Chinese shipping giant Cosco in 2016. Supporters of the non-binding MoU said that it will lead to China complying with European Union standards, including on the environment and intellectual property, and cannot be compared to debt-inducing deals Beijing has signed with developing countries. Despite apparent warming ties, Xi is not expected to meet Pope Francis. The Vatican has diplomatic relations with Taiwan and not Beijing, so the encounter would be unlikely despite an agreement on appointing bishops in China signed last year. Xi heads to Monaco on Sunday and then on to France to cap his European tour.

China's new Silk Road gets bumpy as Xi Jinping visits Italy

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News brief: Big stories of the day

China's new Silk Road gets bumpy as Xi Jinping visits Italy