European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called on China to work toward a negotiated solution regarding the extensive import tariffs recently imposed by US President Donald Trump. The appeal came during a Tuesday phone call with Chinese Premier Li Qiang.

Von der Leyen pointed out that Europe and China, as two of the world's largest markets, share responsibility to support a strong reformed trading system that is "free, fair and founded on a level playing field," according to a statement from her office.

The two leaders discussed creating a mechanism to monitor potential trade diversion resulting from the tariffs. The EU is concerned that China may redirect cheap exports originally meant for the US market to Europe instead.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang stated that both sides should increase communications and protect free and open trade and investment, as reported by Chinese state radio. "China is willing to strengthen political mutual trust with the EU," Li said, adding that China prefers to address concerns through dialogue.

Beijing strongly criticized Trump after he announced additional 50% tariffs on Chinese imports, calling the move "blackmail." Trump has further threatened to increase tariffs on US imports from China to more than 100% starting Wednesday, responding to China's matching of the "reciprocal" duties he announced last week.

The European Union has proposed its own counter-tariffs in response to Trump's widespread tariff actions that have:

• Affected dozens of countries
• Sent financial markets into a downward spiral
• Raised fears of a potential global recession

This development comes as global trade tensions continue to rise, with major economies taking protective measures that could significantly alter international trade patterns and economic relationships.