In his first public statement since tensions reignited between the United States and China, President Xi Jinping declared that China is “not afraid” of the escalating trade war. His comments, delivered during a meeting with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez in Beijing, marked a clear shift from previous diplomatic silence, as fears of a global recession mount and markets continue to slide.
Xi emphasized that trade conflicts benefit no one, cautioning that “going against the world will only lead to self-isolation.” His remarks, aired by China’s state broadcaster CCTV, appear to challenge Washington’s hardline trade stance and underline Beijing’s resistance to perceived economic pressure.
Reflecting on China’s history, Xi highlighted that the country’s progress over the past seven decades has been built on “self-reliance and hard work,” not foreign aid. He positioned China as resilient in the face of “unjust suppression,” and insisted that the nation would remain confident and focused on its internal development, regardless of external turmoil.
The statement serves not only as a response to the U.S. but also as a message to global observers that China intends to stay the course amid increasing economic and political headwinds. As international concerns grow over prolonged market instability, Xi’s words aim to reassure both domestic and international audiences of China’s stability and resolve.