U.S. and China Nearing a "TikTok" Deal in Madrid Talks

U.S. Treasury Secretary, Scott Biesent, stated that the United States and China are nearing an agreement on the future of the "TikTok" app. This announcement came during a new round of talks held in Madrid, aimed at addressing the escalating trade tensions between the two countries.

Negotiation Details and National Security Stakes

The sessions between the delegations, led by Biesent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng, took place at the "Santa Cruz" Palace in Madrid. Biesent noted that the discussions focused on vital issues such as "TikTok," tariffs, and the economy in general. Although technical details saw progress, Biesent described finding solutions for the remaining issues as a "challenge," highlighting that the Chinese delegation came with "significant demands."

In a decisive statement, Biesent said, "We will not sacrifice national security for a social media app," clarifying that Washington prioritizes its security above all else. He also indicated that the decision to extend the deadline for "ByteDance" to sell "TikTok's" U.S. operations will depend on the outcomes of these talks. For his part, U.S. Trade Representative, Jameson Greer, confirmed that Beijing links the "TikTok" deal to other issues, such as accumulated tariffs, making it difficult for Washington to cancel them all at once.

Background of Disputes and Prospects for Resolution

These negotiations follow a series of disputes that worsened after U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to impose high tariffs on Chinese imports. Although the two sides had agreed on a 90-day trade truce during a previous round in Stockholm, tensions remain.

Experts, such as trade advisor William Reinsch, believe that a major breakthrough in Madrid is unlikely. Instead, they expect the deadline for "ByteDance" to sell its U.S. operations to be extended to avoid a ban on the app. Reinsch considers these talks primarily as a prelude to a potential meeting between Presidents Trump and Xi Jinping, believing that any tangible progress will only be achieved after a direct meeting between them.