High-Level Talks Begin as Trump Meets Xi in China

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping have expressed optimism about future ties as they held high-level bilateral discussions in Beijing on Thursday, highlighting hopes for improved relations between the two global powers.

During the meeting, Trump told Xi that the United States and China were headed toward a “fantastic future together,” adding that it was an honour to meet the Chinese leader and calling their relationship “friendship-based and forward-looking.” He further stated that relations between Washington and Beijing could become “better than ever before.”

In response, Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of cooperation, stating that the two countries should remain “partners rather than rivals.” He noted that a stable US–China relationship would benefit the world, adding that cooperation strengthens both sides while confrontation leads to mutual harm.

Ceremonial Welcome in Beijing

Trump was received with a grand ceremonial welcome at the Great Hall of the People, where he was greeted by Xi on a red carpet reception. A military band performed the national anthems of both countries, followed by cannon fire and a formal honour guard inspection.

Children waving Chinese and American flags welcomed the leaders, chanting “welcome, welcome” as part of the state reception. Xi also greeted several members of the US delegation, including top officials such as Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

Following the ceremony, the two leaders proceeded inside the Great Hall to begin formal negotiations.

Trade, Iran, and Taiwan on the Agenda

Trump’s visit to Beijing marks a two-day summit focused on key global issues, including strained trade relations, geopolitical tensions involving Iran, and the sensitive issue of Taiwan.

Trade discussions are expected to dominate the agenda, with Trump signaling interest in expanding US exports, particularly agricultural products and aircraft. He noted that economic cooperation would be a central focus of his talks with Xi.

The US-China trade dispute has previously disrupted global supply chains and significantly reduced bilateral trade volumes, forcing businesses in both countries to adjust strategies.

Trump also indicated he would engage Xi in discussions regarding Iran, which exports most of its sanctioned oil to China. He suggested encouraging Beijing to influence Tehran toward diplomatic engagement with Washington, although he downplayed the need for external assistance.

Meanwhile, Xi is expected to raise concerns over US arms sales to Taiwan, a self-governed island that China considers part of its territory. Washington’s recent multi-billion-dollar defense package to Taiwan has remained a major point of tension, though deliveries have yet to be fully implemented.

Diplomatic Visit and Symbolic Engagements

The Beijing summit, running from May 13 to May 15, marks the first visit by a sitting US president to China since 2017. Trump previously visited the country during that trip with former First Lady Melania Trump, who is not accompanying him this time.

Accompanying the US president are several leading business figures, including executives from major global corporations such as Nvidia, Tesla, Apple, Meta, Visa, JPMorgan Chase, Boeing, and Cargill, reflecting the economic importance of the visit.

The itinerary also includes a visit to the historic Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where Chinese emperors once prayed for good harvests, followed by a formal state banquet hosted later in the day.