"We believe that the nuclear issue on the Korean Peninsula and China-US trade relations are the issues that are in two completely different domains, it is inappropriate to discuss them together," Qian said at a press briefing.
Qian noted the significant benefits that both China and the United States gain from bilateral trade.
"China is ready to cooperate with the United States to promote the balanced development of the bilateral economic and trade relations," the vice minister pointed out.
Tensions around North Korea have been particularly high over the recent months due to the country's numerous ballistic missile tests. The most recent provocation was the reported launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) on Friday.
North Korea’s ICBM test was condemned by many countries, including the United States, which urged the international community to support the United Nation's anti-Pyongyang sanctions, which were imposed over its nuclear program.
