(Yicai Global) Dec. 19 - Progress in trade talks continue between China and the United States, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said on Tuesday.

"The trade teams of China and the U.S. are maintaining close communication in accordance with the important consensus reached by the two heads of state during their meeting," said MOFA spokesperson Huan Chunying.

"We hope that the teams of the two sides can implement the consensus, step up consultations on the basis of mutual respect, equality and sincerity, and move toward eliminating all tariffs for the benefit of both sides."

During the press conference, the spokesperson also responded to a reported claim from the White House National Trade Council director Peter Navarro that the purpose of the trade talks is not only to get China to buy more American products, but more importantly for China to carry out structural reforms.

Hua said China will decide its way of development.