America and China are talking. But much gets lost in translation
How linguistic differences complicate relations between the great powers
EVEN AS AMERICA’S relationship with China enters a new, less predictable era, Donald Trump and Xi Jinping see the value in talking. On January 17th the leaders had a “very good” phone call, wrote Mr Trump on social media. Chinese diplomats said the two agreed to “keep in regular touch on major issues” and committed to work together for “world peace”.
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This article appeared in the China section of the print edition under the headline “Meaning what, exactly?”
From the February 1st 2025 edition
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