Beijing (CNN) China's deputy trade negotiator on Tuesday acknowledged the challenge in resuming negotiations with the US, saying: "How could you negotiate with someone when he puts a knife on your neck?"

Wang Shouwen made the remarks at a press conference in Beijing aimed at highlighting a newly issued government policy paper on bilateral trade frictions, in which China portrays itself as a victim of US protectionism and bullying.

The paper was released Monday shortly after US President Donald Trump slapped 10% tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports. China has retaliated with 5-10% tariffs on $60 billion worth of American goods.

Echoing a position outlined in the 36,000-word document, Wang left the door open for further trade talks but emphasized it was "entirely up to the US side" to show respect and sincerity for negotiations to restart.

He pointed to agreements reached at previous four rounds of talks but only to have Trump tear the deals apart shortly afterwards.

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