U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent plans to discuss artificial intelligence, rare earths, trade, and related economic issues with China’s Vice Premier He Lifeng during a meeting in New York City this weekend, according to sources cited by outlets. The talks are scheduled for Sunday and take place ahead of a planned summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping on September 24 in Washington.
The meeting highlights areas where U.S.-China cooperation and competition intersect. Multiple reports note that the two countries are central drivers in the development and global adoption of advanced AI technologies. Rare earths, which are used in electronics and other high-tech manufacturing, are also expected to feature in the discussions.
Across the articles, the emphasis is broadly similar on the meeting’s agenda and timing. One report adds that the U.S. Trade Representative’s office frames the broader approach as monitoring China’s implementation of recent commitments, focusing on non-sensitive goods, and seeking improved market access. The details provided on specific negotiation points vary, but all accounts describe the same core topics and meeting context.
