CHINA, US AGREE AI DIALOGUE, TARIFF CUTS ON $30BN IN GOODS

China and the United States have agreed to cut tariffs on $30 billion worth of goods in each direction and resume talks on artificial intelligence following Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Washington. The agreements came after Xi and US President Donald Trump concluded a three-day summit on Friday, with both sides seeking to keep trade and economic ties stable. According to the White House, the tariff changes will cover non-sensitive goods, including US agricultural products, wood and cosmetics, as well as Chinese exports such as small appliances, toys and decorations.

China, US to Resume AI Talks

The two countries also agreed to restart discussions on artificial intelligence, focusing on both the technology’s benefits and potential risks. The next round of talks is expected in November. Beijing and Washington will also establish a communication channel to manage incidents linked to AI. China’s Foreign Ministry said both sides should strengthen exchanges and build greater understanding as AI technology develops.

Trade Council Agreed

China and the US also agreed to establish a trade council and extend agreements reached during earlier discussions in Kuala Lumpur. The latest measures follow a two-month extension of the existing trade truce, giving both countries more time to negotiate a broader trade agreement. The White House said the tariff arrangement covers $30 billion of non-sensitive goods in each direction.

Wider Global Cooperation

The two countries also agreed to support each other in hosting major international meetings, including the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation leaders’ meeting and the G20 summit. On foreign policy, Beijing and Washington said Iran should maintain its commitment not to develop nuclear weapons. They also agreed that no country or entity should impose transit tolls on international waterways. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi described Xi’s visit as a step that strengthened the stability of China-US relations and said it could have wider implications for global peace and development. The latest agreements come as China continues to deepen economic, technology and development cooperation with countries across Africa, including Nigeria, where Beijing and Abuja are marking 55 years of diplomatic relations in 2026.