President Donald Trump officially swore in David Perdue as the new US ambassador to the People’s Republic of China during a formal ceremony at the White House on Wednesday. The appointment marks a significant diplomatic move as the US continues to navigate a tense trade relationship with Beijing.

Following the ceremony, Trump addressed reporters and firmly dismissed the notion of reducing the 145% tariffs currently imposed on Chinese goods as a means to encourage China back to the negotiating table. “I don’t know,” Trump replied when questioned about potential tariff exemptions, signaling no immediate plans to alter the current trade stance.

Perdue, a former US senator from Georgia, steps into the role at a critical time, with trade tensions and broader geopolitical issues dominating the US-China agenda. His appointment is seen as an effort to reinforce US diplomatic presence in Beijing amid ongoing economic friction.

Observers note that Trump’s comments reflect a continuation of his administration’s hardline approach toward China, emphasizing pressure through tariffs rather than concessions. Perdue’s diplomatic skills and political experience will be closely watched as he navigates one of America’s most complex bilateral relationships.

The swearing-in comes as the international community closely monitors developments in US-China relations, with both economic stability and global supply chains at stake. As Perdue begins his new post, all eyes will be on how the US-China dynamic evolves in the months ahead.