White House Advisor: Optimistic about making progress with China in the field of trade.

The White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett expressed optimism today, Thursday, about the possibility of making progress with China on trade, noting that there are "loose discussions" between the two governments and that he personally has not held any talks with Chinese officials.

Hassett said on CNBC's "Squawk Box" program, "We are optimistic about making progress," and pointed to the recent steps taken by China to reduce some tariffs.

He added: "I believe that the tariff reductions last week show that we are very close to making the necessary progress to move forward."