U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said on Tuesday there had been a “serious compromise” during a meeting between a bipartisan U.S. congressional delegation and Chinese President Xi Jinping.
The purpose of the visit is to advance US economic and national security interests ahead of a possible summit between Xi and US President Joe Biden next month.
The United States and China have clashed over issues ranging from Taiwan to trade, fentanyl and human rights. Biden has taken steps to restrict China’s access to sensitive American technology, while trying to keep communication channels open.
“There will be serious engagement with President Xi and others,” Schumer said in a briefing at the Beijing residence of US Ambassador Nicholas Burns.
“We need to get results,” he said, adding that “there is a difference” in China’s current stance compared to past engagements with US officials.
Last week, the United States announced measures against Chinese companies and individuals in their fight against the sale of the deadly drug fentanyl, one of the main points of contention in relations between the two countries.
Schumer and other senators who attended the visit said they pressed Chinese officials on the issue. Schumer said he “asked Xi to name a senior Chinese official” responsible for the fentanyl, adding that “they said they would look into it.”
Republican Mike Crapo, co-leader of the visit, said the meetings were “very productive.” Also, he explained that “we are sincere and frank, but respectful. We want to continue the commitment.”
