China has taken a resolute stance against the United States' recent imposition of tariffs, dismissing the U.S. explanation linked to fentanyl as a "flimsy excuse." This development comes as Beijing's most significant political event of the year commenced on Tuesday. The gathering in Beijing saw the Chinese government setting critical economic targets for 2025, outlining a blueprint for the nation's economic trajectory.
Chinese officials have expressed their readiness to confront any form of conflict with the U.S., whether economic or political. This assertion follows President Donald Trump's escalation of pressure on China, which included additional 10% tariffs on Chinese imports effective Tuesday. In response, China implemented retaliatory measures by raising duties on certain U.S. energy imports and placing two American companies on an unreliable entities list that may restrict their operations within China.
"If war is what the U.S. wants, be it a tariff war, a trade war or any other type of war, we're ready to fight till the end." – Chinese Embassy in the U.S.
As tensions mount, China's relationship with the U.S. faces inevitable disagreements. Lou Qinjian, spokesperson for the third session of the 14th National People's Congress, emphasized China's unwillingness to accept external pressure or threats. He urged the U.S. to abandon its domineering approach and return to constructive dialogue and cooperation.
"If the U.S. has other agenda in mind and if harming China's interests is what the U.S. wants, we're ready to fight till the end. We urge the U.S. to stop being domineering and return to the right track of dialogue and cooperation at an early date," – Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson
The cumulative effect of tariffs imposed over the past month has reached 20%, further straining already tense relations between the two nations. The Chinese Embassy in Washington D.C. signaled an increasingly assertive posture towards the U.S., echoing Beijing's readiness to defend its interests.
China remains steadfast in unveiling its economic blueprints for the coming year, determined to achieve its set economic targets despite external challenges. As the situation unfolds, both countries face pressure to navigate their complex relationship while avoiding further economic and political fallout.