US-China Reach Framework Agreement in London Talks on Trade Relations

Following recent diplomatic tensions, US and Chinese officials met in London to establish what Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick called “a framework to implement the Geneva consensus” from last month’s meeting.

The two-day talks aimed to eliminate negativity and create a path forward for broader negotiations. The emerging agreement appears to involve a quid pro quo: China would speed up shipments of rare earth metals crucial for global supply chains, while the US would relax some export restrictions on semiconductors.

While the immediate focus is on defusing current trade frictions, both sides expressed hope for future discussions on larger issues like tariffs. The proposed framework awaits formal approval from Presidents Trump and Xi Jinping, though Trump has already declared the deal complete via social media.