BEIJING — China's Vice President, Han Zheng, held pivotal meetings with U.S. officials including Vice President-elect J.D. Vance and business magnate Elon Musk in Washington just before Donald Trump's inauguration. These discussions come at a critical moment as the two nations face ongoing tensions regarding trade policies and technological issues. According to reports from Time and AP News, Han Zheng is serving as an envoy for Chinese President Xi Jinping and met with Vance, discussing vital topics such as fentanyl, trade balance, and regional stability.

During the meeting, Han emphasized the "extensive common interests and enormous space for cooperation" between the U.S. and China, despite existing disagreements and friction in their relations. This comes as Trump has signaled potential tariff increases and other trade measures against China during his anticipated second term. Yet, there are indications of possible cooperation on urgent matters like fentanyl export control and regional conflicts.

In a surprising diplomatic gesture, Trump previously extended an invitation to Xi Jinping for the inauguration—a first in U.S. history for a foreign head of state to participate in such an event. While Xi will not attend in person, he and Trump conversed ahead of the occasion, addressing trade issues, the opioid crisis related to fentanyl, and the status of TikTok, which had recently faced operational interruptions.

Han also engaged with Musk and other significant U.S. business figures from organizations such as the U.S.-China Business Council and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. The Vice President reassured attendees of plans to enhance the business landscape for foreign corporations in China, urging continued U.S. investment.

Musk, whose Tesla automaker operates a facility in Shanghai, publicly voiced his opposition to the TikTok ban, stating that it infringes on free speech rights. He pointed out the imbalance where TikTok is permitted in the U.S., yet his platform, X, is barred in China alongside other major American social media outlets.

This meeting not only highlights the complexities of U.S.-China relations but also underscores the interdependence characterized by widespread economic ties.