Chinese President Xi Jinping gave US President Donald Trump a highly ceremonial welcome in Beijing on the opening day of a visit that could reshape relations between the world’s two largest powers.
The reception outside the Great Hall of the People featured a military honour guard, a gun salute and performances of the American national anthem. Schoolchildren waving Chinese and US flags lined the route as Trump greeted them during the ceremony.
During their meeting, Trump warmly praised Xi, describing him as a “great leader” while highlighting the importance of continued dialogue between both countries.
The atmosphere marked a sharp contrast from the harsh rhetoric Trump previously used against China during his political campaigns and trade disputes with Beijing.
Over recent years, tensions between Washington and Beijing intensified over tariffs, trade imbalances, Taiwan and geopolitical influence. At the peak of the trade war, both countries imposed tariffs exceeding 100% on each other’s goods before later reaching a temporary truce.
Now, global attention is focused on whether the latest talks could produce a more lasting agreement between the two sides.
In addition to trade, discussions reportedly covered Iran, regional security and the future of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route for global energy supplies.
Chinese state media indicated that Xi warned Trump about rising tensions surrounding Taiwan, the self-governed island claimed by Beijing. China views the Taiwan issue as one of the most sensitive areas in its relationship with the United States.
Beijing also used the visit to project its growing international influence. Analysts say the carefully organised ceremony was designed not only to impress Trump and the American business delegation accompanying him, but also to send a message to the rest of the world about China’s expanding global role.
In recent years, China has strengthened its economic position by increasing trade partnerships and expanding its manufacturing dominance in sectors such as electric vehicles, solar panels and rare earth minerals.
Despite concerns from Western countries over human rights and China’s ties with Russia and North Korea, Beijing continues to deepen its diplomatic and economic influence worldwide.
The ongoing crisis involving Iran and disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz have also increased China’s strategic importance. The United States is believed to be seeking Beijing’s support in encouraging Tehran to avoid further escalation in the region.
China remains Iran’s largest trading partner, giving Beijing considerable leverage in any future negotiations involving the Middle East crisis.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said before the trip that Washington hoped China would play a more active role in helping stabilise the region.
However, Beijing is expected to seek concessions in return, particularly regarding Taiwan and US military support for the island.
The business side of the visit also drew attention, with major American executives including Elon Musk, Tim Cook and Jensen Huang attending official events alongside Trump.
The White House later stated that both governments discussed ways to improve economic cooperation, including expanding opportunities for US companies in the Chinese market and encouraging Chinese investment in American industries.
According to the US statement, both leaders also agreed that Iran should never obtain nuclear weapons and that the Strait of Hormuz must remain open to guarantee global energy flows.
Trump is expected to push for concrete achievements from the summit as he faces declining approval ratings at home.
For China, the meeting comes at a difficult economic moment, with the country dealing with unemployment concerns, slowing growth and financial pressures linked to its property sector and local government debt.
Despite ongoing rivalry, both leaders signaled a willingness to maintain stable relations. Xi described the future relationship as “constructive, strategic and stable,” while also expressing hope for stronger cooperation in trade and agriculture.
Trump invited Xi to visit the White House in September, while Xi said the goals of China’s national development and America’s economic ambitions could coexist.
The Chinese leader ended the state banquet by raising a toast to the future of both nations, calling for continued cooperation between Beijing and Washington.
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