High-level discussions between the United States and China have concluded without a significant breakthrough, with reports indicating a likely extension of current arrangements. In a notable shift, future high-level engagements between US and Chinese leaders are reportedly set to take place in Seoul, South Korea, rather than Beijing. This development comes as Chinese official media reflects a sentiment of pragmatic acceptance, characterized by the phrase "not good not too bad."
The recent outcome aligns with ongoing US-China economic and trade negotiations, which have seen limited progress in recent months. In May 2025, discussions involving top officials, including US Trade Representative Katherine Tai and Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao, as well as Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Vice Premier He Lifeng, concluded in Beijing without major agreements. These talks were described by some as "a bit stalled," underscoring persistent differences on issues ranging from technology to tariffs.
The reported relocation of bilateral "heads" meetings to Seoul marks a significant change in diplomatic protocol. While trilateral discussions involving South Korea, China, and Japan have occurred in the South Korean capital, a direct bilateral shift for high-level US-China talks suggests a potential preference for a neutral venue amidst strained relations. This move could aim to lower the profile of the meetings or facilitate dialogue away from the direct political spotlight of either capital.
The sentiment from China, as conveyed by a "midnight readout from local China People’s Daily," reflects a resigned acceptance of the current state of affairs. According to a social media post by Liqian Ren, the phrase used was "凑活着过吧," which translates to "make do" or "just get by." This idiom suggests that while the outcome is not ideal, it is tolerable, indicating a lack of major progress but also an avoidance of a complete breakdown in crucial bilateral ties.
The continuous dialogue, despite the absence of major deals, highlights the complex and intertwined nature of the US-China relationship. Both nations continue to grapple with trade imbalances, technological competition, and geopolitical tensions, necessitating ongoing communication channels. The current diplomatic posture suggests a strategy of managing disagreements and maintaining stability, rather than pursuing immediate, transformative resolutions.