Trump's exemption of smartphones, chips and electronics from tariffs marks a significant de-escalation in the trade conflict that dominated headlines for the past week. Chinese state media avoided direct celebration, instead pivoting to extensive coverage of Xi's upcoming Southeast Asian tour to Vietnam, Malaysia and Cambodia - his first state visits of 2025.
Multiple state outlets simultaneously published identical articles on Xi's neighborhood diplomacy, emphasizing "peace, harmony, prosperity and integration." The 75th anniversary of China-Indonesia diplomatic ties received prominent coverage, with congratulatory exchanges between Xi and President Prabowo featured across all major outlets.
By afternoon, China had called for complete removal of US tariffs while emphasizing its "community with shared future" vision through diplomatic messaging. The Democratic Party of Hong Kong reportedly moved toward disbandment following warnings from Chinese officials, signaling continued political consolidation.