US sanctions to remain until China reforms its trade practices: Pence
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'We've put tariffs on $250 billion in Chinese goods and that number could more than double,' Pence told CEOs from around the region.
US Vice President Mike Pence on Saturday warned that US sanctions and pressure on China would remain in place until Beijing reforms its trade practices.
"We've put tariffs on $250 billion in Chinese goods and that number could more than double," he told CEOs from around the region.
"We hope for better, but the United States will not change course until China changes its ways.''
Meanwhile, Pence also said the United States will join forces with Australia in the development of a new naval base to be built in Papua New Guinea.
"The United States will partner with Papua New Guinea and Australia on their joint initiative at Lombrum Naval Base," Pence said ahead of a regional summit. "We will work with these two nations to protect the sovereignty and maritime rights in the Pacific Islands. "
Pence's remark comes a day after President Donald Trump on Friday said that he might not punish China with more import tariffs as the country has shown willingness to make a deal to defuse trade tensions.
"China wants to make a deal," Trump told reporters. "They sent a list of things that they are willing to do," news agency AFP quoted the president.
(With inputs from agencies)