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Suspense crime, Digital Desk : China has publicly declared that it is standing by its "Phase One" trade agreement with the United States, pushing back against American criticism that Beijing has failed to meet its obligations. A spokesperson for China's Commerce Ministry asserted that the nation "always keeps its word" and is actively working to implement the landmark deal.

The statement comes as a direct response to growing pressure from Washington. The Phase One deal, signed in January 2020 during the Trump administration, was designed to ease a tense trade war between the two economic superpowers. A central pillar of the agreement required China to purchase an additional $200 billion worth of American goods and services—including agricultural products, energy, and manufactured goods—by the end of 2021.

However, the United States, led by Trade Representative Katherine Tai, has repeatedly pointed out that China fell significantly short of these ambitious purchasing targets. This shortfall has been a major point of friction in the already strained US-China relationship.

In its defense, Beijing claims it has made sincere efforts to fulfill the deal despite facing "the combined impact of the pandemic, the global economic recession, and supply chain disruptions." The Commerce Ministry spokesperson argued that China has worked hard to overcome these negative factors.

In a subtle jab at Washington, the spokesperson also urged the United States to "create a favorable atmosphere and conditions for both sides to implement the agreement." This suggests that China believes US policies, potentially including tariffs that remain in place, are hindering the deal's full execution.

The exchange highlights the ongoing distrust and economic tension between the world's two largest economies. While China publicly reaffirms its commitment, the US remains skeptical, pointing to the unfulfilled purchase commitments. The future of the deal, and the broader trade relationship, remains a critical issue for the global economy.


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