The US president, in a move interpreted as a strategic shift, said he could accept Tehran’s nuclear freeze for two decades, setting a new standard for negotiations.
After leaving Beijing on Friday (15/05), Donald Trump made a surprise statement that marks the limits of his negotiating power and the impact of Chinese mediation.
While until recently Washington had insisted on the complete and final dismantling of Iran’s nuclear program, Trump said from Air Force One that he would accept a 20-year “real” suspension if it was accompanied by guarantees.
This shift comes shortly after interim talks with Xi Jinping, who reportedly pushed for a more pragmatic approach in order to end the war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
In his remarks to reporters on the results of his visit to Beijing made from Air Force One, Donald Trump said that “I’m OK with Iran suspending its nuclear program for 20 years, but there has to be a ‘real’ commitment. 20 years is enough. But the level of guarantee from them has to be really 20 years.”
As for the war in Iran, the US president said that Chinese President Xi Jinping has promised not to supply Iran with military equipment or weapons.
He also said he was very pleased that “China has agreed to buy 200 Boeing planes, with a possible commitment that could reach 750 planes“. “The Boeing planes will have General Electric engines,” he added.
Donald Trump said he was excited about the trade deals signed in Beijing, stating: “We have concluded some fantastic trade deals, great for both countries. American farmers will be very happy with my trade deals with China, the Chinese will buy billions of dollars of soybeans.”
As for the thorn issue with Taiwan he said: “I made no commitment on Taiwan. I don’t think there is a conflict on Taiwan (with China)“
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