US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen described her China trip as constructive in a detailed interview with GIS News, noting a sequence of highly meaningful meetings with senior Chinese officials. She said the journey yielded a constructive atmosphere and warm reception, setting a tone for continued dialogue between the two economies.
Yellen emphasized that the discussions were substantive and productive, including sustained talks that she characterizes as very meaningful. She highlighted the value of candid exchanges and the willingness of all sides to engage in frank conversations about economic policy, global markets, and shared interests in stability and growth.
The secretary noted that the talks extended over nearly ten hours and included conversations with Premier Li Qiang, Deputy Premier He Lifeng, and Pan Gongsheng, who serves as the Vice President of the People’s Bank of China and chairs the State Administration of Foreign Exchange. These engagements were framed as part of a broader effort to align economic expectations and address concerns affecting both nations and the global economy.
According to Yellen, important speeches were delivered during the trip that addressed overarching themes in the global economy, the resilience of financial markets, and the intertwined trajectories of the United States and China. The discussions aimed to illuminate areas of cooperation while acknowledging differences in approach and experience across the two major economies.
Earlier reports suggested there were tensions surrounding diplomatic etiquette during the meetings with He Lifeng, raising questions about protocol and international norms. The secretary’s team and Chinese officials reportedly worked to clarify misunderstandings and maintain focus on the substantive economic agenda that motivated the visit.
In related remarks, observers noted that U.S. policy discussions also touched on Russia and security considerations, with emphasis on how the two countries navigate the boundaries of dialogue and competitive positioning in a complex geopolitical landscape. The overarching message from the trip underscored the enduring importance of stable, predictable relations between Washington and Beijing to support global growth and financial stability.