Donald Trump is in China this week to meet with Xi Jinping. Earlier today, the American and Chinese leaders met at the Great Hall of the People to discuss important issues regarding the Sino-US relationship.
During the talks, Trump confirmed the two countries would sign a trade deal worth USD250 billion during a meeting that included top business leaders from companies like General Motors, GE, Goldman Sachs and more.
In a controversial quote making the rounds online today, Trump had this to say about the trade deficit:
"I don't blame China. After all, who can blame a country for being able to take advantage of another country for benefit of their citizens? I give China great credit.
“But in actuality I do blame past administrations for allowing this out of control trade deficit to take place and to grow. We have to fix this because it just doesn’t work … it is just not sustainable.”
According to a Washington Post reporter, the comment on the trade imbalance drew audible gasps from the room.
US Ambassador to China Terry Branstad later addressed the remarks, telling CNN:
"That's the President's words. I think what he's saying is that China is pursuing its own national interests and you can't blame any country for doing that. We just have to do a better job of doing that for the United States of America."
Xi also added his own remarks, welcoming the international business community to China:
"I will encourage Chinese businesses to do more investment in US and at the same time, invite more US companies to take part in One Belt One Road."
All in all, 15 documents were signed on issues including shale gas, liquefied natural gas, industrial cooperation, vehicles and aircraft engines, according to a White House pool report.
The conference concluded with Trump telling Xi: "I want to thank you, you're a very special man."
Shortly after the talks, AFP reported that China signed a USD37 billion deal to buy 300 Boeing planes.
READ MORE: 5 Key Things Xi Jinping and Donald Trump Talked About in Beijing Today
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