President Donald Trump confirmed Monday he is seeking to delay his scheduled March 31-April 2 trip to Beijing for a summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping by "a month or so." The decision stems directly from the escalating Iran war and U.S. military operation Epic Fury.
Trump told reporters the priority is remaining in Washington to coordinate the war effort. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent reinforced that traveling abroad "may not be optimal" during active hostilities.
The U.S. has asked China - its largest oil importer - to help secure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, where one-fifth of global oil flows. China has not responded publicly to the request.
Despite the scheduling uncertainty, U.S. and Chinese officials continue preparations. Treasury Secretary Bessent met in Paris with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng to advance trade groundwork - including potential U.S. agricultural exports and rare earth minerals cooperation.