Global trade tensions continue to escalate as Chinese leaders advocate for stronger regional alliances and warn against the dangers of economic conflict. On Tuesday, Chinese Premier Li Qiang reportedly sent a letter to Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, urging a coordinated response to US-imposed tariffs. The message, according to Kyodo News citing a Japanese official, emphasized China's desire to strengthen ties with Japan amid economic instability caused by ongoing trade disputes.

As part of this strategy, China is also said to be halting new investments in private companies headquartered in the United States, a move likely aimed at reinforcing domestic economic resilience and pressuring US policy decisions.

Meanwhile, Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a firm message during a meeting with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev. Xi stated that tariffs and trade wars weaken all countries, disrupt global economic order, and damage multilateral trade systems. "Such practices undermine legitimate national interests and international fairness," Xi warned. His remarks came shortly after US President Donald Trump clarified that while tariffs on Chinese imports would not reach 145%, they would remain in place to protect American industries.

The Xi-Aliyev meeting also saw the launch of a new China-Azerbaijan comprehensive strategic partnership, including the signing of 20 cooperation agreements across sectors such as the Belt and Road Initiative, digital economy, green development, and law enforcement collaboration.

Elsewhere, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva emphasized a balanced approach to global diplomacy. Speaking at a public event, Lula stated, “I don't want a cold war. I want to have a relationship with both [the US and China]. I want to trade with everyone.” His comments reflect Brazil's non-aligned stance and aim to maintain positive trade relations with the world's two largest economies.

Amid rising global uncertainty, these developments highlight the complexity of current international trade dynamics and the differing strategies nations are employing to navigate them. With President Trump maintaining tariffs, China building regional alliances, and Brazil promoting neutrality, the global trade landscape remains in a state of cautious flux.