Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on May 7, 2026, that China-U.S. relations have maintained overall stability despite 'many twists and disruptions,' during a meeting with a visiting U.S. bipartisan congressional delegation led by Senator Steve Daines. Wang credited Presidents Xi Jinping and Donald Trump for guiding bilateral ties through critical moments, ahead of Trump's scheduled visit to China on May 14-15.

Senator Daines, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and Trump ally, affirmed the need for stability and mutual respect, stating, 'We want to de-escalate, not decouple.' He noted potential progress in trade, including new Boeing aircraft purchases, following the upcoming summit. Daines also acknowledged China's diplomatic efforts in West Asia, particularly Foreign Minister Wang's May 6 meeting with Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi on reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

U.S. officials have urged Beijing to leverage its influence with Iran to restore full passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil transit route. Daines' visit marks his second to China since Trump took office, following a trip in March 2025 focused on trade disputes and fentanyl controls. The State Department confirmed ongoing coordination for the May 14-15 summit, which will address regional security, trade imbalances, and diplomatic cooperation.