Public statements or interviews by Elon Musk reported by major news outlets

Elon Musk Could Broker U.S.-China Relations Under Trump

Nov 12, 2024, 05:02 AM

Elon Musk could play a significant role in shaping U.S.-China relations under a potential second term of Donald Trump, according to various analysts and experts. Musk's influence is seen as a potential bridge between the two nations, with some suggesting he could act as an interlocutor between President Xi Jinping and Trump, possibly involving some form of quid pro quo. His business interests in China, including running the country's largest foreign auto plant, position him uniquely to influence policy. There is widespread curiosity in China about whether Musk could be the new Henry Kissinger, helping broker deals between Washington and Beijing. Analysts believe that Trump's China dealings might rely on billionaires like Musk, who could advocate for engagement rather than harsher decoupling advocated by some of Trump's advisors. Ian Bremmer, founder of Eurasia Group, suggests that the Chinese government would certainly reach out to Musk to see how they can use him to influence U.S.-China trade.