Trump Says China Played Key Role in Iran Issue, Signals Possible High-Level Visits

WASHINGTON:U.S. President Donald Trump has said that China played an important role in matters related to Iran, while also highlighting ongoing diplomatic engagement between Washington and Beijing.

Speaking during an address in the U.S. state of Maryland, Trump stated that China purchases around 50 percent of its oil requirements from Iran, but still contributed significantly to developments regarding the Iran issue.

He further said that Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to visit the United States in September, and added that he himself plans to visit China again later this year.

Commenting on relations with Israel, Trump said that the United States maintains “excellent relations” with Israel.

In a separate interview with a U.S. media outlet, the president also suggested the possibility of taking action against Cuba similar to Venezuela, saying such a move was “certainly possible,” though no timeline has been set.