Equal consultation with mutual respect right way to settle TikTok issue: Editorial flash

The forthcoming talks in Madrid between Chinese and United States negotiators over the TikTok issue highlight the importance of mutual respect and equal consultation in resolving the ongoing dispute.

China's position on the TikTok matter remains clear and consistent. As stated by a spokesperson from China's Ministry of Commerce, China is firmly committed to safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of its enterprises, and will continue to handle the TikTok issue in accordance with laws and regulations.

China urges the US to meet it halfway, engage in constructive dialogue based on mutual respect and equal consultation, and create a business environment that is open, fair, just and nondiscriminatory for Chinese companies.

This is crucial not only for the future of TikTok but also for the broader relationship between China and the US in the economic and trade sectors. It is through such a dialogue that both countries can promote the stable, healthy, and sustainable development of their economic relations.

China's call for fairness extends beyond its own interests. It aligns with the global need for clear, consistent rules that allow digital economies to thrive without discrimination or geopolitical pressure.

China places a high priority on data privacy and security. The Ministry of Commerce spokesperson emphasized that the Chinese government has never and will never require any enterprise or individual to violate local laws to collect or provide data located outside China for the Chinese government. This declaration is a clear rebuttal of the baseless allegations surrounding TikTok in the US.

The success of Chinese companies such as TikTok internationally is a testament to innovation and global connectivity — the forces that should be nurtured, not hindered.

The latest diplomatic engagement in Madrid comes amid the backdrop of US President Donald Trump's executive order in June to extend the deadline for TikTok's continued operations in the US. This order provides more time for negotiations, extending the current deadline to Sept 17. The extension suggests that despite the political rhetoric and legal challenges, the path to resolution lies in continued dialogue.

China remains hopeful that the US will choose collaboration rather than confrontation during the upcoming talks. Working together through respectful dialogue to resolve the TikTok issue is conducive for the two nations to foster a vibrant, predictable and nondiscriminatory business environment that benefits both sides and strengthens China-US economic ties.