Washington: Former U.S. President Donald Trump has said that Chinese President Xi Jinping clearly told him that Iran must not be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons, while also revealing major trade agreements between the United States and China.
Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump claimed that China has agreed to purchase 200 Boeing aircraft, with potential orders rising to as many as 750 jets. He also said that China will buy billions of dollars’ worth of U.S. soybeans, a move he said would greatly benefit American farmers.
He further stated that he has no objection to suspending Iran’s nuclear program for 20 years and indicated he would consider lifting sanctions on Chinese companies purchasing Iranian oil. According to him, there is “full agreement” with the Chinese president on the Iran issue.
Trump also claimed that Xi Jinping expressed interest in keeping the Strait of Hormuz open, saying it is in China’s economic interest as nearly 40% of its trade passes through the strategic waterway. He reiterated that China firmly opposes Iran acquiring nuclear weapons.
On Taiwan, Trump said China was given no assurances regarding the issue and added that he does not expect a major conflict, stating that U.S. policy on Taiwan remains unchanged.
He also criticized a New York Times report on Iran’s military capabilities, calling it “serious treason,” and dismissed claims that Iran retained most of its missile systems. He asserted that Iran “can never obtain nuclear weapons” and claimed the U.S. has already “won the war” against Iran.
Regarding Iran negotiations, he said he rejected Iran’s response to talks, claiming the first line of their message was unacceptable. He further alleged that U.S. forces could disable Iran’s power infrastructure within two days and suggested Iranian nuclear material could be transferred to China or the United States.
Trump also reiterated that if he had not halted the Obama-era nuclear deal, Iran would already possess nuclear weapons.
Commenting on British politics, he said UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing challenges due to energy and immigration policies, though he described him as a “good man.”
He also praised Pakistan’s leadership, stating that the country’s Prime Minister and Field Marshal are “great personalities.”
