Donald Trump says he has spoken to China's Xi since inauguration: 'A very good personal relationship'

Trump also claimed he knows Xi “better than anybody” and made a similar remark about North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

US President Donald Trump has confirmed speaking with Chinese President Xi Jinping since taking office on January 20 but did not disclose details of their conversation.

In an interview with Fox News, Trump stated, “Yeah, I’ve talked to him,” when asked if he had spoken to Xi since taking office. He underscored his strong personal rapport with the Chinese leader, saying, “I happen to like him a lot, President Xi,” and added, “We have a very good personal relationship.”

Trump's confirmation comes amid heightened tensions between Washington and Beijing over trade tariffs, cybersecurity, Taiwan, Hong Kong, human rights, and the origins of COVID-19. Trump recently imposed new tariffs on China, which triggered retaliatory measures from Beijing.

Trump also claimed he knows Xi “better than anybody” and made a similar remark about North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

Despite the ongoing trade dispute, Trump had earlier downplayed the urgency of negotiations with Xi. "I’m in no rush," he said last week, suggesting he was willing to let the situation unfold before engaging in talks to de-escalate tensions.

On Monday, Trump signed proclamations strengthening tariffs on all steel and aluminium imports, aiming to prevent China and Russia from circumventing penalties. He also hinted at rolling out reciprocal tariffs, arguing they would be fairer than flat-rate duties.

The White House and China’s foreign ministry have not yet commented on the details of Trump’s latest conversation with Xi.

Washington and Beijing have long-standing disputes over trade, cybersecurity, Taiwan, Hong Kong, human rights, and the origins of COVID-19. Prior to Trump’s inauguration, he and Xi had spoken about key issues, including TikTok, trade policies, and Taiwan.