Trump to decide on China after meeting with Xi Jinping

U.S. President Donald Trump attempted to lower the temperature in the U.S.-China trade war as both sides wrangle over tariffs and export controls.

In an interview with Fox News, he mixed in some flattery for Chinese President Xi Jinping while still airing some grievances.

“I’m not looking to destroy China,” Trump said.

Earlier this month, he announced an additional 100% tariff and software restrictions on China, which has a stranglehold on the world’s supply of rare earths and imposed tighter export controls that threaten a wide range of industries.

“Now they’ve forced me to charge them what is the equivalent of 155 to 157%,” Trump said.

In Trump’s latest Fox interview, he said China is “always looking for an edge” and has “ripped off our country for years.” He also reiterated that triple-digit tariffs on China aren’t sustainable and touted his positive relationship with Xi.

“I get along great with him. He’s a very strong leader a very, you know, amazing man. And you look at what he’s done and … his life is an amazing story. It’s a story for a great movie. I think we’re going to be fine with China, but we have to have a fair deal,” Trump said.