Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang reiterated on Monday that China has been holding a consistent position in trade frictions with the United States, saying the differences should be resolved through friendly consultations and negotiations.

Lu's remarks came as US President Donald Trump said in Japan that the US isn't ready to make a trade deal with China, but he's leaving open the possibility that the two nations could strike an agreement someday.

Speaking at a regular news conference, Lu said the US side has made various remarks about trade negotiations, with some saying the agreement will come out soon while others saying it's still difficult to reach an agreement, from time to time.

China's position has been consistent, Lu said. "The trade frictions should be resolved through friendly consultations and negotiations, which must be based on mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit," he added.