Beijing: China has reiterated its willingness to engage in dialogue with the United States, while firmly defending its 'red line' principles. Lou Qinjian, spokesman for the National People's Congress (NPC) of China, stated today that the nation remains open to cooperation to promote communication at all levels but will strictly adhere to its own principles.

According to Thai News Agency, Lou's statement comes on the eve of the annual National People's Congress session, an event that outlines China's economic goals and policy priorities for the year. This session occurs amid fragile U.S.-China relations, as both countries aim to stabilize their relationship before a significant meeting between President Donald Trump and President Xi Jinping, expected in Beijing at the end of March. Lou emphasized that as superpowers, China and the United States should respect each other and focus on peaceful coexistence.

The bilateral relations, already strained over trade tensions, faced further challenges following the detention of Venezuelan President Nicol¡s Maduro in January and the conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which resulted in the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei. China, considering both Venezuela and Iran as close allies, has a vested interest in these developments due to crude oil exports.

Mr. Lou urged for an immediate ceasefire and stressed the importance of respecting Iran's sovereignty. He affirmed that no country should dominate international affairs or act unilaterally on the global stage. Moreover, he emphasized that China will continue to protect its sovereignty, security, and developmental interests.

Diplomacy at the head of state level, Lou noted, plays a crucial role in maintaining bilateral relations. He called for expanded cooperation and a reduction of conflicts, urging the U.S. Congress to adopt a neutral perspective towards China for the betterment of bilateral ties.

While Beijing has yet to officially announce, White House officials have confirmed President Trump's visit to China between March 31 and April 2. Concurrently, high-level trade negotiators from both countries are expected to meet in Paris next week to discuss potential business deals, which are linked to the anticipated meeting between the two leaders.