Speaking to a gathering of American business executives and policy experts on September 25, 2025, Chinese Premier Li Qiang emphasized the critical need for the United States and China to align their efforts. He described their relationship as the world’s most vital bilateral partnership, underscoring the importance of working together for its continued development.
Premier Li conveyed to the approximately twenty attendees that their perspectives were highly valued and their actions held significant importance in shaping the future of U.S.-China relations.
Following his brief opening remarks at the event, which was co-hosted by the U.S.-China Business Council and the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations, the discussion proceeded in a private setting.
The National Committee on U.S.-China Relations later confirmed that the private talks covered a range of topics including economic, investment, and trade matters, alongside exploring avenues for enhanced cooperation on issues of mutual interest.
Stephen Orlins, president of the committee, highlighted the significance of such dialogues, stating that it is crucial for American business and policy leaders to engage with Chinese counterparts. This engagement allows them to address concerns, discuss vital issues, and foster productive working relationships.
Premier Li was attending the United Nations General Assembly’s annual gathering of world leaders in New York, where he represented China in place of President Xi Jinping. He was scheduled to deliver China’s primary address to the Assembly on September 26, 2025.
This meeting occurred at a pivotal and evolving moment for the relationship between the world’s two largest economies. Discussions often revolve around complex and sometimes contentious issues, including trade policies, tariffs, the ownership of platforms like TikTok, computer chip technology, critical minerals, and broader geopolitical and strategic concerns.
Reiterating his earlier sentiment, Premier Li stated at the business gathering that the U.S.-China relationship stands as the most critical bilateral partnership globally. He stressed that its stable progress hinges on both governments committing to a unified direction.
Just last week, President Xi and U.S. President Donald Trump engaged in an extensive phone conversation. Following this call, President Trump announced plans for an in-person meeting at an upcoming Asian regional summit in South Korea next month, with a subsequent visit to China scheduled for the following year.