Elon Musk, who leads Tesla and SpaceX, spoke with Chinese officials in Beijing about maintaining strong economic ties between the United States and China. He stressed that disrupting those links would not help either country, according to multiple insiders familiar with the discussions.
In a conversation with Chinese foreign, trade, and industry ministers, Musk remarked that the interests of the United States and China are so closely linked that they resemble intertwined paths. The remark underscored his belief that cooperation and steady dialogue are essential for navigating complex global markets and shared challenges. The discussion highlighted the strategic importance of consistent engagement between the two nations in areas ranging from technology and manufacturing to supply chains and energy.
China’s Foreign Minister, Qin Gang, responded by stressing the need to keep bilateral relations on a constructive course. He called for mutual respect and mutually beneficial cooperation, and he encouraged ongoing dialogue to ensure both sides benefit from collaboration while addressing sensitivities with care.
A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson reiterated the country’s openness to engagement with leaders and business figures from around the world, including Musk. The spokesperson indicated that China intends to invite continued visits to deepen understanding of Chinese markets, policies, and opportunities for cooperative ventures that create value for businesses and workers alike.
The May 30 visit to Beijing marked a rare appearance by a billionaire executive in a period of heightened tensions between China and the United States. The trip occurred as U.S.-China relations face broader challenges, including trade frictions and strategic competition in cutting-edge sectors. The aligned messaging from both sides suggested a desire to avoid frictions that could hinder collaboration in science, technology, and manufacturing.
Tesla’s ties to China remain a critical component of its global strategy. The company has established substantial manufacturing capabilities in the country, including a major battery factory in Shanghai and plans that reflect long-term investments in local production. Industry watchers note that any significant shifts in U.S.-China economic links could reverberate through Tesla’s supply chains, production timelines, and market access. The ongoing relationship with Chinese partners is viewed as central to maintaining stability in supply and accelerating the deployment of next-generation energy and mobility technologies.