Geneva, Switzerland — Donald Trump proclaimed a significant shift in U.S.-China trade relations following the initial day of discussions between key officials from both nations. The meetings are focused on easing tensions that have escalated into an ongoing trade dispute.

The U.S. president characterized the negotiations as a “total reset” completed in a friendly atmosphere. He expressed optimism for the outcome on his social media platform, stating the discussions were “very good” and emphasized his desire for China to open its markets to American companies. Trump noted that significant progress was achieved but did not specify what initiatives were being contemplated.

On Saturday, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer engaged for approximately eight hours with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng to address the trade rift sparked by steep tariffs. These talks, the first in-person engagement since the trade conflict intensified, took place in a private villa associated with Switzerland’s U.N. ambassador.

The trade tensions have grown since the beginning of the year, when Trump imposed tariffs on Chinese imports totaling 145%, while China retaliated with tariffs as high as 125%. This back-and-forth has effectively created a stalling trade environment that has impacted nearly $600 billion in annual commerce.

While both delegations concluded their talks without any formal statements or indications of immediate successes in reducing tariffs, the atmosphere remained cautiously optimistic. In light of the ongoing trade dispute that has caused disruptions in supply chains and heightened concerns over a potential global economic downturn, the significance of these discussions cannot be overstated.

Despite the positive outlook from some quarters, analysts remain skeptical about any meaningful breakthroughs occurring. Trump mentioned the possibility of lowering tariffs to a level around 80%, marking the first time he offered a specific alternative to the current rate.

The conversations come amid conflicting narratives about the impetus for the talks. Trump suggested that China was proactive in seeking negotiations, while Chinese officials maintain that the U.S. initiated the discussions, reiterating their stance against imposed tariffs.

U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick articulated the administration’s intentions, noting the president’s desire to de-escalate the ongoing situation. However, he acknowledged that any lowering of tariffs would require reciprocal actions from China.

Furthermore, Trump’s press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, reiterated that any potential tariff reductions would not occur unilaterally, insisting that China must make concessions as well. This sentiment reflects the broader desire from the U.S. administration to shift the economic dynamics in favor of American interests.

In Geneva, the Swiss Economy Minister Guy Parmelin also met with representatives from both nations, emphasizing the importance of the discussions themselves as a step toward reducing tensions. He hinted at the possibility of continued dialogue extending into the following days, which could lead to a clearer path forward.

Both sides appear to recognize the urgency of their negotiations. As economic realities continue to unfold, the outcome of these talks may have far-reaching implications not just for the U.S. and China, but for the global economic landscape as a whole.