China on Tuesday strongly denied claims by former U.S. President Donald Trump that Chinese President Xi Jinping called him to discuss global affairs and bilateral ties over the phone.
Trump told supporters during a campaign rally in Florida over the weekend that Chinese leader Xi had recently reached out to him and engaged in an in-depth dialogue about world events and US leadership, expressing concern over current U.S. policies as well as an openness to diplomatic engagement should he return as President in 2025.
Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a rare public statement refuting such allegations outright. Mao Ning, ministry spokesperson, informed press at an ongoing press briefing that such reports “are not grounded on facts.”
This statement only heightens tensions between Washington and Beijing and casts further doubt upon Trump as he embarks on his presidential run. Chinese officials noted that any official dialogue between their countries remains only through official diplomatic channels; particularly between Biden and Xi.
Trump doubled down on his claim by posting another message to Truth Social that read: “Of course Xi called me; he respects strength and leadership — something Biden doesn’t understand.” Trump added, “Fake News media outlets and Beijing are trying to spin this as fear they fear my return – this is all going down as planned!”
Political analysts from both nations noted that while Trump and Xi maintained a complex relationship during Trump’s presidency, with moments both of trade war tensions and personal diplomacy. Yet it would be highly uncommon for a Chinese leader to initiate direct contact with a former U.S. president amid geopolitical dynamics.
U.S. State Department officials declined to address directly this matter, noting instead that all communications with foreign governments must follow strict protocols that typically involve going through both the White House and National Security Council.
Meanwhile, media in China have mostly downplayed the episode, with major outlets focusing on official state responses rather than Trump’s remarks. Analysts speculate that China may be trying to minimize visibility given to former president’s statements at such an emotional time for both countries.
This incident underscores the high stakes involved in international diplomacy as both nations navigate leadership transitions, military tensions in Asia-Pacific regions, and economic uncertainty worldwide.
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