Yellen Defends Tariffs, Export Controls in Address to Pro-China Business Group

The U.S. seeks to stabilize its relationship with China to prevent escalation, treasury secretary says.

Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellen speaks during a news conference following a bilateral meeting with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in San Francisco, Calif., on Nov. 10, 2023. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen defended the Biden administration’s China strategy and outlined measures aimed at reducing tensions with Beijing in a speech on Dec. 14 at the U.S.-China Business Council’s 50th anniversary dinner in Washington.

National security would remain a top priority for the United States, she told the members of the business group, which promotes trade between the United States and China.