China looks forward to a new model of relations with the United States and partnership with Russia

Chinese President Xi Jinping said during a visit to the UN headquarters in Geneva that Beijing would seek a new model of relations with the United States, adding that protectionism would not benefit either country.

Great powers must “keep in check what separates them,” and “trade protectionism will not benefit anyone,” Xi said. The Chinese president's remarks appear to be directed to the US president-elect, but Xi did not comment directly on Trump.

"The major powers must respect each other's fundamental interests ... and build a new model of relations based on mutual respect and conflict-free cooperation," the Chinese president said. And he added that China will strive to create "a new model of relations with large countries, including the United States", as well as develop "a comprehensive partnership (...) with Russia."

At the same time, the Trump administration-appointed Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross said during a hearing in the US Senate that tariffs are expected to be introduced at 35 percent. He also said that China is the most protectionist country in the world that wants to "control the media and entertainment industry in the United States, but denies such opportunities to American companies in China." In addition, he accused China of "wanting to absorb" Africa's natural resources.