US Republican Senator Steve Daines and China's Premier Li Qiang have confirmed the importance of dialogue to help resolve intensifying trade friction between their countries.



Daines, who is believed to be close to President Donald Trump, held talks with Li in Beijing on Sunday, together with some American business leaders.



China's state-run Xinhua News Agency reported that Li told Daines nobody has anything to gain from a trade war, and no country can achieve development and prosperity through imposing tariffs.



Xinhua reported the premier went on to say it is hoped that the United States will work with China to engage in candid communication and will promote the stable, healthy and sustainable development of relations.



The Xinhua report said the American side indicated their willingness to strengthen dialogue and cooperation.



The US senator met Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng in Beijing one day earlier.



He called on China to stop the flow of fentanyl into the US --- the issue the Trump administration has cited as the reason for imposing additional tariffs on Beijing.



Daines also expressed hope that high-level talks between the US and China will take place.



The focus of attention is now on whether the two countries will be able to make progress in furthering their dialogue in the face of escalating trade friction.