The White House of the United States noted on the 23rd (local time) that it has a very optimistic outlook on negotiations with China, which is engaged in a 'tariff war.'
Kevin Hassett, Chairperson of the National Economic Council (NEC), responded during an interview with Fox News that it is correct to say that President Donald Trump has taken a much more positive tone toward China over the past 48 hours. He said, "The President will announce the timing directly when negotiations are underway, but it is clear that the President and our team are open to negotiations."
He added, "The President will know exactly what the next step with China will be," and "He will make a decision and announce the results to the world. I can say that the process will proceed." This comments follow President Trump's statement earlier that day at an executive order signing ceremony that he is "negotiating directly with China every day."
Chairperson Hassett said, "We are very optimistic about China and even more so about all other countries," and regarding the duration of negotiations, he stated, "It will not proceed like previous administrations and will follow the 'Trump timeline.'" He pointed out that it took an average of 18 months for trade negotiations between countries to conclude under the previous administration.
It was also mentioned that the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) has scheduled 14 meetings with foreign trade ministers just this week. Chairperson Hassett stated, "The progress we have made so far is thanks to the top trade team, including Representative Grier and Minister Howard Lutnick," and noted, "Especially because Peter Navarro, White House trade and manufacturing advisor, has been preparing for these transactions since January 20 (the day of Trump's inauguration)."