The recent summit of US President Donald Trump and visiting Chinese President Xi Jinping was widely watched as heralding cooperation on key areas like critical minerals and artificial intelligence. While the two nations agreed on new mechanisms for cooperation on artificial intelligence and trade, no substantive comprehensive pacts were signed. So what's the reality compared to the buzz?<h2>No new supply deal on rare earths</h2>China controls roughly 90 per cent of global rare-earth processing capacity. A fact sheet issued by the White House on September 25 said the two sides will continue to work on the US concerns over shortages of rare earths and other critical minerals, aimed at returning shipments to “appropriate levels”. There was no mention of specific supply targets or commitments to eliminate export licensing controls. An official readout from China also did not highlight rare earths.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-xi-summit-xi-wraps-up-us-visit-with-21-gun-salute-as-trump-xi-lock-in-strategic-stability-1790391939259/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-xi-summit-xi-wraps-up-us-visit-with-21-gun-salute-as-trump-xi-lock-in-strategic-stability-1790391939259/embed</a>Chinese rare-earth exports to the US remained below historical levels ahead of the summit. The US had earlier raised concerns over China not fully meeting its prior commitments, with compliance estimated at around two-thirds. Chinese shipments of rare earth magnets to the US averaged about 504 tonnes a month in 2026, compared with 621 tonnes in 2024.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-xi-summit-startling-omissions-behind-the-great-meeting-1790483239695">Trump-Xi Summit: Startling omissions behind the ‘great meeting’</a><h2>AI dialogue continues, without a clear deal</h2>The Trump-Xi summit did not produce a formal agreement on AI development, safety standards, semiconductor exports or technology transfers, in spite of widespread anticipation.Perhaps the most significant outcome was a name change: from artificial intelligence to Super Intelligence, a term that the two leaders agreed to use for the relevant emerging technologies.The two sides will establish a US-China Super Intelligence Dialogue to discuss the risks and benefits of emerging technologies, with the next exchange expected in November 2026. A bilateral communication channel for super-intelligence incidents will be established.These arrangements came after the September 20–21 talks between US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng.&nbsp;China, meanwhile, sought relief from US semiconductor controls affecting advanced AI models.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-xi-china-iran-war-strait-hormuz-pressure-tehran-1790531547788">Trump asked Xi to pressure Iran. China did not say yes — here’s what Beijing wants</a><h2>So, what was actually agreed upon?</h2>There has been progress on some other aspects of the bilateral ties, particularly on trade. The US and China extended their trade truce to January 10, 2027. Under the Board of Trade, the two sides agreed on more favourable tariff treatment covering $30 billion of non-sensitive goods.China agreed to import at least 10 million metric tonnes of US coal in 2027 and 2028.In November 2025, China had committed to suspend expanded rare-earth export controls and issue general licences covering several critical minerals, and in May 2026, it committed to address US concerns over supply shortages of minerals like yttrium, scandium, neodymium and indium.Shipment levels and licensing remain concerns for the US when it comes to rare earths. On AI, dialogue advanced, while semiconductor controls and technology transfers remained unresolved.&nbsp;

Trump-Xi summit produced an AI dialogue channel but no substantive pacts on rare-earth or AI technology. Rare-earth shipments, export licensing, and semiconductor controls remained unresolved.

The recent summit of US President Donald Trump and visiting Chinese President Xi Jinping was widely watched as heralding cooperation on key areas like critical minerals and artificial intelligence. While the two nations agreed on new mechanisms for cooperation on artificial intelligence and trade, no substantive comprehensive pacts were signed. So what's the reality compared to the buzz? No new supply deal on rare earths China controls roughly 90 per cent of global rare-earth processing capacity. A fact sheet issued by the White House on September 25 said the two sides will continue to work on the US concerns over shortages of rare earths and other critical minerals, aimed at returning shipments to “appropriate levels”. There was no mention of specific supply targets or commitments to eliminate export licensing controls. An official readout from China also did not highlight rare earths. https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-xi-summit-xi-wraps-up-us-visit-with-21-gun-salute-as-trump-xi-lock-in-strategic-stability-1790391939259/embed Chinese rare-earth exports to the US remained below historical levels ahead of the summit. The US had earlier raised concerns over China not fully meeting its prior commitments, with compliance estimated at around two-thirds. Chinese shipments of rare earth magnets to the US averaged about 504 tonnes a month in 2026, compared with 621 tonnes in 2024. Also read: Trump-Xi Summit: Startling omissions behind the ‘great meeting’ AI dialogue continues, without a clear deal The Trump-Xi summit did not produce a formal agreement on AI development, safety standards, semiconductor exports or technology transfers, in spite of widespread anticipation. Perhaps the most significant outcome was a name change: from artificial intelligence to Super Intelligence, a term that the two leaders agreed to use for the relevant emerging technologies. The two sides will establish a US-China Super Intelligence Dialogue to discuss the risks and benefits of emerging technologies, with the next exchange expected in November 2026. A bilateral communication channel for super-intelligence incidents will be established. These arrangements came after the September 20–21 talks between US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng. China, meanwhile, sought relief from US semiconductor controls affecting advanced AI models. Also read: Trump asked Xi to pressure Iran. China did not say yes — here’s what Beijing wants So, what was actually agreed upon? There has been progress on some other aspects of the bilateral ties, particularly on trade. The US and China extended their trade truce to January 10, 2027. Under the Board of Trade, the two sides agreed on more favourable tariff treatment covering $30 billion of non-sensitive goods. China agreed to import at least 10 million metric tonnes of US coal in 2027 and 2028. In November 2025, China had committed to suspend expanded rare-earth export controls and issue general licences covering several critical minerals, and in May 2026, it committed to address US concerns over supply shortages of minerals like yttrium, scandium, neodymium and indium. Shipment levels and licensing remain concerns for the US when it comes to rare earths. On AI, dialogue advanced, while semiconductor controls and technology transfers remained unresolved.

Trump-Xi summit produced an AI dialogue channel but no substantive pacts on rare earths or AI technology. Rare-earth shipments, export licensing, and semiconductor controls remained unresolved.

Trump-Xi Summit: What happened to AI and rare earths agreements? Buzz vs reality

Despite two different summits, US President Donald Trump had failed to secure any concrete commitment from Chinese President Xi Jinping that could significantly tip the balance of power in favour of Washington in the US-Iran war. Trump pressed Xi to get China to help end the Iran war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, curb support for Tehran, but did not score any bargain in that regard.&nbsp;China had earlier in May stated that it had clear incentives in reopening the Strait of Hormuz, as China, being an export-oriented economy, wanted to maintain uninterrupted maritime trade. But it remained unclear whether China would do anything to pressure Iran. This time in September, Xi backed renewed US-Iran talks but still did not commit to pressuring Tehran. Iran did not feature in any of the leaders' public remarks on Thursday, though Xi has expressed hope that US and Iran “will return to the track of resolving issues through dialogue and negotiation as soon as possible.” The meeting gave no public indication that Beijing had agreed to curb any of the specific support US officials wanted stopped, whether it was satellite imagery, targeting support, missile and drone components, or sanctioned oil purchases.US Treasury Secretary Bessent launched Operation Economic Outcast on August 24, 2026, a global secondary-sanctions campaign meant to cut off any country or entity doing business with Iran from the dollar system. Bessent called it an "economic D-Day" and warned the sanctions campaign came with a promise to "sever every economic lifeline" sustaining Tehran.Bessent claimed that China would not be exempted, claiming that it was not “above the reach of" US sanctions. China's response was defiance, not cooperation. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said that “China has made clear on many occasions its firm opposition to illicit unilateral sanctions that have no basis in international law or the authorisation of the UN Security Council". China and Russia have already vetoed a US-drafted UN Security Council resolution that would have mandated experts monitoring compliance with UN sanctions on Iran for a year.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-envoy-denis-alipov-us-contain-india-landau-freudian-slip-graham-act-1790528466750">Russian envoy claims US tactics to contain India were revealed in ‘Freudian slip’</a><h2>Why does China have little incentive to assist Washington?</h2>Beijing has significant leverage over Tehran but has little incentive to use it, and it has already demonstrated it will restrict rare-earth exports in retaliation; it ran this script in April last year against Trump's tariffs, and within weeks American and European automakers were idling assembly lines. China accounted for more than 90 per cent of Iranian oil revenue in 2025, while Chinese imports have dropped this year to manage the scarce supply of Crude oil in global markets to 534,000 barrels per day in August, compared to 1.4 million bpd in 2025; it has not stopped. China also continued air links with Iran despite the Trump-Xi summit; a Mahan Air flight from Tehran landed in Guangzhou last Wednesday.Washington has so far avoided sanctioning China's major state-owned banks, hitting only smaller shipping and refining firms because a full break would risk destabilising global finance and trigger a trade war Washington doesn't want either.China has already initiated its Belt and Road Initiative, and Russia has its trans-Caspian sea corridor to bypass the US and Western-sanctioned trade route. China's southern corridor connects Xi'an and Urumqi through Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan to dry ports near Tehran; trains on this route jumped from 7 total over seven years to roughly 40-65 a year. Together, these two can not help Iran win the war, but create a trade bloc independent of the US, keeping Tehran alive long enough to make this war economically painful for Washington, so it seems perfectly plausible for China to buy more time, as the US economy continues to lose fiscal stability, while it continues building alternative payment infrastructure that reduces its own dollar dependency over time.&nbsp;

Trump failed to secure a commitment from Xi to pressure Iran or reopen Hormuz, as China weighs its economic interests against Washington’s demands.

Despite two different summits, US President Donald Trump had failed to secure any concrete commitment from Chinese President Xi Jinping that could significantly tip the balance of power in favour of Washington in the US-Iran war. Trump pressed Xi to get China to help end the Iran war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, curb support for Tehran, but did not score any bargain in that regard. China had earlier in May stated that it had clear incentives in reopening the Strait of Hormuz, as China, being an export-oriented economy, wanted to maintain uninterrupted maritime trade. But it remained unclear whether China would do anything to pressure Iran. This time in September, Xi backed renewed US-Iran talks but still did not commit to pressuring Tehran. Iran did not feature in any of the leaders' public remarks on Thursday, though Xi has expressed hope that US and Iran “will return to the track of resolving issues through dialogue and negotiation as soon as possible.” The meeting gave no public indication that Beijing had agreed to curb any of the specific support US officials wanted stopped, whether it was satellite imagery, targeting support, missile and drone components, or sanctioned oil purchases. US Treasury Secretary Bessent launched Operation Economic Outcast on August 24, 2026, a global secondary-sanctions campaign meant to cut off any country or entity doing business with Iran from the dollar system. Bessent called it an "economic D-Day" and warned the sanctions campaign came with a promise to "sever every economic lifeline" sustaining Tehran. Bessent claimed that China would not be exempted, claiming that it was not “above the reach of" US sanctions. China's response was defiance, not cooperation. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said that “China has made clear on many occasions its firm opposition to illicit unilateral sanctions that have no basis in international law or the authorisation of the UN Security Council". China and Russia have already vetoed a US-drafted UN Security Council resolution that would have mandated experts monitoring compliance with UN sanctions on Iran for a year. Also Read: Russian envoy claims US tactics to contain India were revealed in ‘Freudian slip’ Why does China have little incentive to assist Washington? Beijing has significant leverage over Tehran but has little incentive to use it, and it has already demonstrated it will restrict rare-earth exports in retaliation; it ran this script in April last year against Trump's tariffs, and within weeks American and European automakers were idling assembly lines. China accounted for more than 90 per cent of Iranian oil revenue in 2025, while Chinese imports have dropped this year to manage the scarce supply of Crude oil in global markets to 534,000 barrels per day in August, compared to 1.4 million bpd in 2025; it has not stopped. China also continued air links with Iran despite the Trump-Xi summit; a Mahan Air flight from Tehran landed in Guangzhou last Wednesday. Washington has so far avoided sanctioning China's major state-owned banks, hitting only smaller shipping and refining firms because a full break would risk destabilising global finance and trigger a trade war Washington doesn't want either. China has already initiated its Belt and Road Initiative, and Russia has its trans-Caspian sea corridor to bypass the US and Western-sanctioned trade route. China's southern corridor connects Xi'an and Urumqi through Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan to dry ports near Tehran; trains on this route jumped from 7 total over seven years to roughly 40-65 a year. Together, these two can not help Iran win the war, but create a trade bloc independent of the US, keeping Tehran alive long enough to make this war economically painful for Washington, so it seems perfectly plausible for China to buy more time, as the US economy continues to lose fiscal stability, while it continues building alternative payment infrastructure that reduces its own dollar dependency over time.

Trump failed to secure a commitment from Xi to pressure Iran or reopen Hormuz, as China weighs its economic interests against Washington’s demands.

Trump asked Xi to pressure Iran. China did not say yes — here’s what Beijing wants

Donald Trump called his summit with Xi Jinping a “great meeting”. The two leaders emerged with eight understandings covering trade, artificial intelligence, Iran and counternarcotics cooperation. But on the issue that is fundamental to China-US relations, at least as per Beijing, there was no announced breakthrough.&nbsp;Taiwan is conspicuously absent from China’s final list of eight deliverables and understandings. It is also missing from the White House fact sheet celebrating the summit’s achievements, even though China’s official account of the talks confirms that Xi raised the issue directly with Trump.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-xi-summit-xi-wraps-up-us-visit-with-21-gun-salute-as-trump-xi-lock-in-strategic-stability-1790391939259/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-xi-summit-xi-wraps-up-us-visit-with-21-gun-salute-as-trump-xi-lock-in-strategic-stability-1790391939259/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;That omission matters because Xi explicitly linked Washington’s handling of Taiwan to the very foundation of future China-US strategic cooperation.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/donald-trump-shares-image-of-xi-s-arrival-in-washington-carries-signs-of-ai-1790432344077">Donald Trump shares image of Xi's arrival in Washington, carries signs of AI</a><h3>Taiwan remains the unresolved fault line</h3>&nbsp;China’s official account quotes Xi as telling Trump, “It is hoped that the U.S. side will adhere to the correct position of opposing ‘Taiwan independence,’ and handle the Taiwan question with caution, so as to lay a solid foundation for China-U.S. strategic cooperation and the development of bilateral relations.”&nbsp;Yet no Taiwan understanding appears among the summit’s final deliverables. The silence is particularly striking after Xi’s warning during Trump’s visit to China in May that mishandling Taiwan could lead the two countries to “clashes and even conflicts”. Months later, the issue that is central to the political foundation of the relationship remains unresolved.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-and-china-agree-to-bilateral-hotline-for-ai-incidents-after-trump-xi-summit-1790397909104">US and China agree to bilateral hotline for AI incidents after Trump-Xi Summit</a><h2>A curious World War II reference</h2>&nbsp;Both governments recalled that China and the United States fought as allies during World War II. Washington went further. The White House said America’s forward military presence since World War II has preserved a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific”. China’s statement omits that assertion. The omission only raises curiosity regarding differences between the two sides over the US military role in Asia.&nbsp;<h2>Iran emerges as significant common ground</h2>&nbsp;Iran may be among Washington’s most consequential outcomes of the summit. Trump and Xi agreed that Iran should not develop nuclear weapons and that no country or institution should be allowed to impose tolls on international waterways. Given China’s economic relationship with Tehran and the importance of the Strait of Hormuz to global energy flows, Beijing’s public agreement gives Washington significant common ground on two key objectives.&nbsp;<h2>Agreements cannot hide the central divide</h2>&nbsp;The summit produced tangible areas of cooperation. But the absence of a Taiwan understanding is harder to overlook precisely because Xi himself linked the issue to the foundations of China-US strategic cooperation. Trump and Xi may have found ways to stabilise their rivalry but on the issue with perhaps the greatest potential to destabilise it, the fundamental disagreement remains.

While President Donald Trump touted a "great meeting" with Xi Jinping, critical issues like AI regulation, trade tariffs, and Taiwan were left unaddressed. Here is a look at the startling omissions behind the high-stakes US-China summit. 

Donald Trump called his summit with Xi Jinping a “great meeting”. The two leaders emerged with eight understandings covering trade, artificial intelligence, Iran and counternarcotics cooperation. But on the issue that is fundamental to China-US relations, at least as per Beijing, there was no announced breakthrough. Taiwan is conspicuously absent from China’s final list of eight deliverables and understandings. It is also missing from the White House fact sheet celebrating the summit’s achievements, even though China’s official account of the talks confirms that Xi raised the issue directly with Trump. https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-xi-summit-xi-wraps-up-us-visit-with-21-gun-salute-as-trump-xi-lock-in-strategic-stability-1790391939259/embed That omission matters because Xi explicitly linked Washington’s handling of Taiwan to the very foundation of future China-US strategic cooperation. Also read: Donald Trump shares image of Xi's arrival in Washington, carries signs of AI Taiwan remains the unresolved fault line China’s official account quotes Xi as telling Trump, “It is hoped that the U.S. side will adhere to the correct position of opposing ‘Taiwan independence,’ and handle the Taiwan question with caution, so as to lay a solid foundation for China-U.S. strategic cooperation and the development of bilateral relations.” Yet no Taiwan understanding appears among the summit’s final deliverables. The silence is particularly striking after Xi’s warning during Trump’s visit to China in May that mishandling Taiwan could lead the two countries to “clashes and even conflicts”. Months later, the issue that is central to the political foundation of the relationship remains unresolved. Also read: US and China agree to bilateral hotline for AI incidents after Trump-Xi Summit A curious World War II reference Both governments recalled that China and the United States fought as allies during World War II. Washington went further. The White House said America’s forward military presence since World War II has preserved a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific”. China’s statement omits that assertion. The omission only raises curiosity regarding differences between the two sides over the US military role in Asia. Iran emerges as significant common ground Iran may be among Washington’s most consequential outcomes of the summit. Trump and Xi agreed that Iran should not develop nuclear weapons and that no country or institution should be allowed to impose tolls on international waterways. Given China’s economic relationship with Tehran and the importance of the Strait of Hormuz to global energy flows, Beijing’s public agreement gives Washington significant common ground on two key objectives. Agreements cannot hide the central divide The summit produced tangible areas of cooperation. But the absence of a Taiwan understanding is harder to overlook precisely because Xi himself linked the issue to the foundations of China-US strategic cooperation. Trump and Xi may have found ways to stabilise their rivalry but on the issue with perhaps the greatest potential to destabilise it, the fundamental disagreement remains.

While President Donald Trump touted a "great meeting" with Xi Jinping, critical issues like AI regulation, trade tariffs, and Taiwan were left unaddressed. Here is a look at the startling omissions behind the high-stakes US-China summit.

Trump-Xi Summit: Startling omissions behind the ‘great meeting’

China and the United States have agreed to a reciprocal tariff-reduction arrangement covering $30 billion worth of goods and will launch a new dialogue on artificial intelligence, Beijing said on Saturday (Sep 26). This comes after Chinese President Xi Jinping’s three-day visit to Washington, during which he held talks with US President Donald Trump.The agreements formed part of an eight-point consensus reached during Xi’s meetings with US President Donald Trump, as the world’s two largest economies seek to stabilise ties after months of trade tensions.<h2>Trade takes centre stage</h2>According to China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the two sides endorsed the work of their economic teams and agreed to establish a trade council alongside the tariff-reduction arrangement.The deal covers $30 billion of non-sensitive goods in each direction, according to a White House fact sheet released after the summit. The two countries also agreed to build on outcomes from their earlier talks in Kuala Lumpur.Washington and Beijing had already agreed to extend their existing trade truce by two months, pushing the deadline beyond November 10 and giving negotiators more time to work towards a broader agreement, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said.The summit ended with several mechanisms for continued engagement, although the leaders did not announce a sweeping new trade deal.<h2>AI gets a new channel</h2>Artificial intelligence emerged as another area where Washington and Beijing agreed to maintain direct communication.The two sides will establish a dialogue covering the risks and benefits of advanced AI technologies, with the next round scheduled for November. They will also create a communication channel for AI-related incidents.Xi said China and the US had “more reasons to cooperate than compete” on AI, arguing that both countries should exchange views on risks and work to prevent misuse and abuse of the technology.<h2>Iran, global summits also discussed</h2>The leaders also discussed foreign policy, agreeing that Iran should uphold its commitment not to develop nuclear weapons. They said no country or entity should impose tolls on international waterways.Washington and Beijing also agreed to support each other as hosts of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) leaders’ meeting and G20 summit, with both leaders signalling plans to attend the gatherings hosted by the other.The two sides further recalled that China and the United States fought as allies during World War Two, adding a historical note to a summit focused largely on managing their modern rivalry.&nbsp;

China and the US agreed to a $30 billion tariff-reduction arrangement and new AI dialogue during Xi Jinping’s US visit, as both sides seek to stabilise ties after months of trade tensions.

China and the United States have agreed to a reciprocal tariff-reduction arrangement covering $30 billion worth of goods and will launch a new dialogue on artificial intelligence, Beijing said on Saturday (Sep 26). This comes after Chinese President Xi Jinping’s three-day visit to Washington, during which he held talks with US President Donald Trump. The agreements formed part of an eight-point consensus reached during Xi’s meetings with US President Donald Trump, as the world’s two largest economies seek to stabilise ties after months of trade tensions. Trade takes centre stage According to China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the two sides endorsed the work of their economic teams and agreed to establish a trade council alongside the tariff-reduction arrangement. The deal covers $30 billion of non-sensitive goods in each direction, according to a White House fact sheet released after the summit. The two countries also agreed to build on outcomes from their earlier talks in Kuala Lumpur. Washington and Beijing had already agreed to extend their existing trade truce by two months, pushing the deadline beyond November 10 and giving negotiators more time to work towards a broader agreement, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said. The summit ended with several mechanisms for continued engagement, although the leaders did not announce a sweeping new trade deal. AI gets a new channel Artificial intelligence emerged as another area where Washington and Beijing agreed to maintain direct communication. The two sides will establish a dialogue covering the risks and benefits of advanced AI technologies, with the next round scheduled for November. They will also create a communication channel for AI-related incidents. Xi said China and the US had “more reasons to cooperate than compete” on AI, arguing that both countries should exchange views on risks and work to prevent misuse and abuse of the technology. Iran, global summits also discussed The leaders also discussed foreign policy, agreeing that Iran should uphold its commitment not to develop nuclear weapons. They said no country or entity should impose tolls on international waterways. Washington and Beijing also agreed to support each other as hosts of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) leaders’ meeting and G20 summit, with both leaders signalling plans to attend the gatherings hosted by the other. The two sides further recalled that China and the United States fought as allies during World War Two, adding a historical note to a summit focused largely on managing their modern rivalry.

China and the US agreed to a $30 billion tariff-reduction arrangement and new AI dialogue during Xi Jinping’s US visit, as both sides seek to stabilise ties after months of trade tensions.

China, US strike $30 billion tariff deal, agree to launch AI dialogue

US President Donald Trump took Chinese President Xi Jinping to Washington's National Archives on Friday, where he showed him some of America's most important founding documents as Xi's state visit drew to a close. The visit to the archives, which houses the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution, capped a high-profile trip marked by ceremonies, military displays and a state banquet.&nbsp;The two leaders also discussed the conflict involving Iran, while confirming plans to meet again at international summits later this year. Their next meetings are expected at the APEC summit in China and the G20 summit in the United States. Despite the elaborate pageantry surrounding Xi's visit, the summit did not produce major new announcements on several difficult issues, including artificial intelligence, Taiwan and broader US-China trade relations. The two sides did, however, continue efforts to maintain dialogue and extend a period of relative stability in their economic relationship.&nbsp;Trump described the meeting in positive terms, saying it was “one of Friendship, Strength, and Success, for both China and the USA.” "We've made great strides, very positive for both countries," Trump told reporters as he had tea with Xi at the White House before the National Archives visit.<h2>Trump and Xi stress ‘strategic stability’</h2>Trump had given Xi an elaborate welcome during his Washington visit, including a state banquet attended by prominent figures from the American technology and business sectors. The Chinese president said his trip had added ‘new substance’ to his summit with Trump in Beijing in May. Xi said the two sides had agreed to “strategic stability on the basis of respect, fairness, and reciprocity.” The continuation of direct engagement between Trump and Xi was among the clearest outcomes of the visit. AP reported that the two leaders are expected to meet twice more before the end of 2026, including at the APEC summit and the G20 meeting.&nbsp;The final day of Xi's visit saw Trump and first lady Melania Trump accompany Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, to the National Archives. Inside the building, Trump showed Xi the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution. The National Archives identifies the Declaration, Constitution and Bill of Rights as America's principal founding documents. The Declaration of Independence, adopted on July 4, 1776, marked the formal declaration of the 13 American colonies' independence from Great Britain. "We're just comparing how this goes 250 years, theirs goes 6,000 years," Trump said, referring to China's ancient history.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-as-shehbaz-sharif-claims-pakistan-s-victory-during-2025-conflict-indian-diplomat-r-srinivas-laughs-at-un-1790362807026">WATCH | As Shehbaz Sharif claims Pakistan’s ‘victory’ during 2025 conflict, Indian diplomat R Srinivas laughs at UN</a><h2>Trump confirms Iran was discussed</h2>During the National Archives visit, Trump confirmed that Iran had been part of his discussions with Xi. "We did, we did," Trump said when asked whether the two leaders had discussed Iran. Trump was also asked about prospects for progress toward reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global energy shipments. "I think we're going to do great," Trump replied. The discussions come amid continued US-China differences over the conflict involving Iran and the wider consequences for energy supplies and regional security.&nbsp;<h2>Democracy, media freedom and Trump’s Xi tour</h2>Trump's decision to showcase America's founding documents during Xi's visit also drew attention because of the contrast between the democratic principles represented by the US Constitution and the political systems of the two countries. The National Archives describes the Constitution as establishing the framework of the US federal government, while the Bill of Rights defines key rights and liberties.&nbsp;The visit came shortly after a dispute involving the Trump administration and several US media organizations over access to the White House. A federal judge ordered the outlets to be readmitted after they had been barred. The First Amendment protects freedom of the press in the United States, while rights groups have long raised concerns about press freedom and freedom of expression in China.&nbsp;Trump also used his tour of the White House with Xi to comment on former President Joe Biden, pointing to an autopen displayed in a gallery of US presidents rather than Biden's portrait. The National Archives visit ultimately provided a symbolic ending to Xi's Washington trip, with both leaders emphasizing continued engagement even as significant disagreements over trade, technology, Taiwan and geopolitical issues remain unresolved.

Trump takes Xi Jinping to the National Archives after US-China summit talks, where the leaders discuss Iran, trade and future meetings

US President Donald Trump took Chinese President Xi Jinping to Washington's National Archives on Friday, where he showed him some of America's most important founding documents as Xi's state visit drew to a close. The visit to the archives, which houses the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution, capped a high-profile trip marked by ceremonies, military displays and a state banquet. The two leaders also discussed the conflict involving Iran, while confirming plans to meet again at international summits later this year. Their next meetings are expected at the APEC summit in China and the G20 summit in the United States. Despite the elaborate pageantry surrounding Xi's visit, the summit did not produce major new announcements on several difficult issues, including artificial intelligence, Taiwan and broader US-China trade relations. The two sides did, however, continue efforts to maintain dialogue and extend a period of relative stability in their economic relationship. Trump described the meeting in positive terms, saying it was “one of Friendship, Strength, and Success, for both China and the USA.” "We've made great strides, very positive for both countries," Trump told reporters as he had tea with Xi at the White House before the National Archives visit. Trump and Xi stress ‘strategic stability’ Trump had given Xi an elaborate welcome during his Washington visit, including a state banquet attended by prominent figures from the American technology and business sectors. The Chinese president said his trip had added ‘new substance’ to his summit with Trump in Beijing in May. Xi said the two sides had agreed to “strategic stability on the basis of respect, fairness, and reciprocity.” The continuation of direct engagement between Trump and Xi was among the clearest outcomes of the visit. AP reported that the two leaders are expected to meet twice more before the end of 2026, including at the APEC summit and the G20 meeting. The final day of Xi's visit saw Trump and first lady Melania Trump accompany Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, to the National Archives. Inside the building, Trump showed Xi the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution. The National Archives identifies the Declaration, Constitution and Bill of Rights as America's principal founding documents. The Declaration of Independence, adopted on July 4, 1776, marked the formal declaration of the 13 American colonies' independence from Great Britain. "We're just comparing how this goes 250 years, theirs goes 6,000 years," Trump said, referring to China's ancient history. Also Read: WATCH | As Shehbaz Sharif claims Pakistan’s ‘victory’ during 2025 conflict, Indian diplomat R Srinivas laughs at UN Trump confirms Iran was discussed During the National Archives visit, Trump confirmed that Iran had been part of his discussions with Xi. "We did, we did," Trump said when asked whether the two leaders had discussed Iran. Trump was also asked about prospects for progress toward reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global energy shipments. "I think we're going to do great," Trump replied. The discussions come amid continued US-China differences over the conflict involving Iran and the wider consequences for energy supplies and regional security. Democracy, media freedom and Trump’s Xi tour Trump's decision to showcase America's founding documents during Xi's visit also drew attention because of the contrast between the democratic principles represented by the US Constitution and the political systems of the two countries. The National Archives describes the Constitution as establishing the framework of the US federal government, while the Bill of Rights defines key rights and liberties. The visit came shortly after a dispute involving the Trump administration and several US media organizations over access to the White House. A federal judge ordered the outlets to be readmitted after they had been barred. The First Amendment protects freedom of the press in the United States, while rights groups have long raised concerns about press freedom and freedom of expression in China. Trump also used his tour of the White House with Xi to comment on former President Joe Biden, pointing to an autopen displayed in a gallery of US presidents rather than Biden's portrait. The National Archives visit ultimately provided a symbolic ending to Xi's Washington trip, with both leaders emphasizing continued engagement even as significant disagreements over trade, technology, Taiwan and geopolitical issues remain unresolved.

Trump takes Xi to the National Archives after US-China talks, highlighting American founding documents as both leaders agree to continue dialogue

Trump-Xi summit wrap: Big pageantry, Iran talks, few major developments and more meetings planned

US President Donald Trump said Friday (Sep 25) that he discussed the Iran war with Chinese President Xi Jinping during the Chinese leader’s three-day state visit to Washington, as the United States pressed Beijing over allegations of support for Tehran.“We did, we did,” Trump told reporters when asked whether Iran had come up in his talks with Xi. The US president made the remarks while showing Xi around the National Archives in Washington on the final day of the visit.Trump was also asked whether he expected progress on reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy route affected by the conflict.“I think we’re going to do great,” Trump said.<h2>US warns against support for Iran</h2>US Ambassador to China David Perdue said Trump had made Washington’s position clear during his discussions with Xi, telling the Chinese leader that direct or indirect assistance to Iran was “totally unacceptable.” He made the remarks in an interview with CNBC on Friday (Sep 25).Asked by Fox News whether that meant China would stop assisting Tehran, Perdue said Washington had received assurances from Beijing.“We’ve seen movement ... on that already. That’s what the commitment is. They assured us yesterday they’re not doing that,” Perdue told the network’s “America’s Newsroom” programme.Trump and Xi did not take formal questions during the three-day state visit.<h2>Earlier allegations over China</h2>Earlier this month, Trump dismissed a report alleging that Iran obtained satellite imagery of a US-linked base in Jordan from Chinese entities before an attack that killed three US troops there in July.“They basically do what we do,” Trump said on September 13. “When they say China spies on us, I say you’re right and we spy on them too.”

Trump said he discussed Iran with Xi Jinping, as US Ambassador David Perdue said Washington warned Beijing that direct or indirect support for Tehran is “totally unacceptable.”

US President Donald Trump said Friday (Sep 25) that he discussed the Iran war with Chinese President Xi Jinping during the Chinese leader’s three-day state visit to Washington, as the United States pressed Beijing over allegations of support for Tehran. “We did, we did,” Trump told reporters when asked whether Iran had come up in his talks with Xi. The US president made the remarks while showing Xi around the National Archives in Washington on the final day of the visit. Trump was also asked whether he expected progress on reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy route affected by the conflict. “I think we’re going to do great,” Trump said. US warns against support for Iran US Ambassador to China David Perdue said Trump had made Washington’s position clear during his discussions with Xi, telling the Chinese leader that direct or indirect assistance to Iran was “totally unacceptable.” He made the remarks in an interview with CNBC on Friday (Sep 25). Asked by Fox News whether that meant China would stop assisting Tehran, Perdue said Washington had received assurances from Beijing. “We’ve seen movement ... on that already. That’s what the commitment is. They assured us yesterday they’re not doing that,” Perdue told the network’s “America’s Newsroom” programme. Trump and Xi did not take formal questions during the three-day state visit. Earlier allegations over China Earlier this month, Trump dismissed a report alleging that Iran obtained satellite imagery of a US-linked base in Jordan from Chinese entities before an attack that killed three US troops there in July. “They basically do what we do,” Trump said on September 13. “When they say China spies on us, I say you’re right and we spy on them too.”

Trump said he discussed Iran with Xi Jinping, as US Ambassador David Perdue said Washington warned Beijing that direct or indirect support for Tehran is “totally unacceptable.”

‘Totally unacceptable’: Trump warns Xi over China’s support for Iran

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Sep 25) said that talks with Xi Jinping made progress for the United States and China. Trump made the remarks as he and First Lady Melania Trump hosted tea at the White House for Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, as the couple wrapped up their two-day Washington visit. Meanwhile, the Chinese president hinted at more meetings between the two leaders this year.“I think we’ve made tremendous strides, we’ve made great strides, very positive for both countries,” Trump told reporters.&nbsp;<h2>Xi hints at more meetings with Trump</h2>Xi suggested that he may have more meetings with Trump this year. The two leaders are expected to meet at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting in China and later at the G20 Summit in the United States. He invited Trump and Melania to visit China.“Looking ahead to the remainder of this year, there will be two more opportunities for us to meet each other – firstly the APEC meeting in China and then the G20 summit in the United States,” Xi said. “I do welcome you, Mr President and the First Lady, to visit China.”<h2>Trump warns Xi over China’s support for Iran</h2>Trump also said that he discussed the Iran war with Chinese President Xi Jinping during the Chinese leader’s three-day state visit to Washington, as the United States pressed Beijing over allegations of support for Tehran.“We did, we did,” Trump told reporters when asked whether Iran had come up in his talks with Xi. The US president made the remarks while showing Xi around the National Archives in Washington on the final day of the visit.Trump was also asked whether he expected progress on reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy route affected by the conflict.“I think we’re going to do great,” Trump said.Meanwhile, US Ambassador to China David Perdue said Trump had made Washington’s position clear during his discussions with Xi, telling the Chinese leader that direct or indirect assistance to Iran was “totally unacceptable.” He made the remarks in an interview with CNBC on Friday (Sep 25).

Trump said US-China talks made “tremendous strides” as Xi Jinping hinted at two more meetings this year and invited Trump and Melania to visit China during APEC and G20.

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Sep 25) said that talks with Xi Jinping made progress for the United States and China. Trump made the remarks as he and First Lady Melania Trump hosted tea at the White House for Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, as the couple wrapped up their two-day Washington visit. Meanwhile, the Chinese president hinted at more meetings between the two leaders this year. “I think we’ve made tremendous strides, we’ve made great strides, very positive for both countries,” Trump told reporters. Xi hints at more meetings with Trump Xi suggested that he may have more meetings with Trump this year. The two leaders are expected to meet at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting in China and later at the G20 Summit in the United States. He invited Trump and Melania to visit China. “Looking ahead to the remainder of this year, there will be two more opportunities for us to meet each other – firstly the APEC meeting in China and then the G20 summit in the United States,” Xi said. “I do welcome you, Mr President and the First Lady, to visit China.” Trump warns Xi over China’s support for Iran Trump also said that he discussed the Iran war with Chinese President Xi Jinping during the Chinese leader’s three-day state visit to Washington, as the United States pressed Beijing over allegations of support for Tehran. “We did, we did,” Trump told reporters when asked whether Iran had come up in his talks with Xi. The US president made the remarks while showing Xi around the National Archives in Washington on the final day of the visit. Trump was also asked whether he expected progress on reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy route affected by the conflict. “I think we’re going to do great,” Trump said. Meanwhile, US Ambassador to China David Perdue said Trump had made Washington’s position clear during his discussions with Xi, telling the Chinese leader that direct or indirect assistance to Iran was “totally unacceptable.” He made the remarks in an interview with CNBC on Friday (Sep 25).

Trump said US-China talks made “tremendous strides” as Xi Jinping hinted at two more meetings this year and invited Trump and Melania to visit China during APEC and G20.

Trump hails ‘very positive’ US-China talks as Xi hints at more meetings this year

US President Donald Trump presented Chinese President Xi Jinping with a sculpture of a bald eagle during a state dinner at the White House on Thursday (Sep 24), describing the bird as a symbol of American freedom.The roughly three-foot sculpture was displayed atop a podium and was designed by an American artist in collaboration with Trump and First Lady Melania Trump, the US president said during his remarks.<h2>‘Free and soaring spirit of America’</h2>“The bald eagle is a national symbol of the United States and an embodiment of the free and soaring spirit of America,” Trump said as he presented the gift to Xi. “We hope it’ll find a nice place, a wonderful place in Beijing,” he added.Trump also told the Chinese president that he and Melania had been involved in designing the sculpture.The gift came at the end of a state dinner hosted for Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, during the Chinese president’s first state visit to the White House in more than a decade. The White House said the dinner was held in the East Room and included official delegations, business leaders and government officials.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-ve-never-gotten-along-better-trump-praises-xi-jokes-about-white-house-ballroom-at-high-stakes-state-dinner-1790298530847">‘We’ve never gotten along better’: Trump praises Xi, jokes about White House ballroom at high-stakes state dinner</a>&nbsp;<h2>From national symbol to national bird</h2>The bald eagle has long been associated with the United States. The US Fish and Wildlife Service says the species is solely native to North America and has historically ranged from Alaska and Canada through the contiguous United States to northern Mexico.Congress formally designated the bald eagle as the national bird in 2024, after it had served as a national symbol for centuries.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spy-vs-spy-as-xi-meets-trump-a-12-year-history-of-us-china-espionage-accusations-wion-decodes-1790071582437">SPY VS SPY: As Xi meets Trump, a 12-year history of US-China espionage accusations | WION Decodes</a>Trump's choice of the eagle as a gift to Xi placed one of America's most recognisable national symbols at the centre of the diplomatic dinner, with the president explicitly linking it to what he described as the country's “free and soaring spirit”.The presentation was part of a broader state visit marked by ceremonial events, military honours and diplomatic engagement between Washington and Beijing. The White House said Xi's visit would conclude on Friday with a visit by the two presidential couples to the National Archives in Washington.

Donald Trump gifted Xi Jinping a roughly three-foot bald eagle sculpture during a White House state dinner, describing the bird as a symbol of American freedom. The gesture came as Washington and Beijing sought to project warmer ties.

US President Donald Trump presented Chinese President Xi Jinping with a sculpture of a bald eagle during a state dinner at the White House on Thursday (Sep 24), describing the bird as a symbol of American freedom. The roughly three-foot sculpture was displayed atop a podium and was designed by an American artist in collaboration with Trump and First Lady Melania Trump, the US president said during his remarks. ‘Free and soaring spirit of America’ “The bald eagle is a national symbol of the United States and an embodiment of the free and soaring spirit of America,” Trump said as he presented the gift to Xi. “We hope it’ll find a nice place, a wonderful place in Beijing,” he added. Trump also told the Chinese president that he and Melania had been involved in designing the sculpture. The gift came at the end of a state dinner hosted for Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, during the Chinese president’s first state visit to the White House in more than a decade. The White House said the dinner was held in the East Room and included official delegations, business leaders and government officials. Also read | ‘We’ve never gotten along better’: Trump praises Xi, jokes about White House ballroom at high-stakes state dinner From national symbol to national bird The bald eagle has long been associated with the United States. The US Fish and Wildlife Service says the species is solely native to North America and has historically ranged from Alaska and Canada through the contiguous United States to northern Mexico. Congress formally designated the bald eagle as the national bird in 2024, after it had served as a national symbol for centuries. Also read | SPY VS SPY: As Xi meets Trump, a 12-year history of US-China espionage accusations | WION Decodes Trump's choice of the eagle as a gift to Xi placed one of America's most recognisable national symbols at the centre of the diplomatic dinner, with the president explicitly linking it to what he described as the country's “free and soaring spirit”. The presentation was part of a broader state visit marked by ceremonial events, military honours and diplomatic engagement between Washington and Beijing. The White House said Xi's visit would conclude on Friday with a visit by the two presidential couples to the National Archives in Washington.

Donald Trump gifted Xi Jinping a roughly three-foot bald eagle sculpture during a White House state dinner, describing the bird as a symbol of American freedom. The gesture came as Washington and Beijing sought to project warmer ties.

Trump gifts Xi a bald eagle sculpture at White House dinner: Here’s what it symbolises

US President Donald Trump used the White House state dinner for Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday (Sep 24) to praise their relationship, saying the two had “never gotten along better” and thanking Xi for making the long journey from China to Washington.The dinner came during Xi's first state visit to the United States in more than a decade, with the leaders trying to manage tensions over trade, Taiwan, artificial intelligence and the war in Iran. Trump had earlier in the day described the talks as a major meeting and said the two sides had made “tremendous strides”.During the dinner speech, Trump largely stuck to his prepared remarks during the dinner, which celebrated US-China ties, but made an unscripted detour to one of his signature projects at the White House: the construction of a new ballroom.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/making-history-xi-jinping-praises-trump-as-us-china-leaders-dine-at-white-house-1790297342133">'Making history': Xi praises Trump as US-China leaders dine at White House</a><h2>Trump praises Xi, US-China ties</h2>The president's formal remarks focused mainly on the long history of relations between the United States and China and his assessment of the current relationship with Xi. Thanking the Chinese leader for travelling to the US, Trump said: “We’ve never gotten along better.”Referring to the broader US-China relationship, Trump acknowledged the political and economic differences between Washington and Beijing while highlighting areas where the two countries have common interests. “President Xi and I both understand that we represent different systems, but the ties between our people endure,” Trump said.However, he repeatedly emphasised his personal relationship with Xi in the run-up to the visit, describing it as a key part of managing disagreements between the two governments.&nbsp;<h2>Xi calls for peaceful coexistence</h2>Xi struck a more measured tone during his own remarks. He called on China and the United States to maintain communication, manage their differences and “coexist in peace”.“China and the United States must act as responsible major countries,” Xi said, according to reports of his remarks. He also said the two countries could gain from cooperation and lose from confrontation.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spy-vs-spy-as-xi-meets-trump-a-12-year-history-of-us-china-espionage-accusations-wion-decodes-1790071582437">SPY VS SPY: As Xi meets Trump, a 12-year history of US-China espionage accusations | WION Decodes</a><h2>Trump's ballroom detour</h2>Turning to Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, Trump said they could be the first guests to enter the ballroom, even though the project remains under construction and is still about a year from completion. “As a special treat, you could be the first people to enter our ballroom,” Trump said.He then joked about the unfinished site, telling guests that anyone interested could take a look after the evening’s entertainment. “Anybody who wants to walk into a construction site that’s nice and clean and sparkling, it’s our honour to have you do so,” Trump said.Xi's state visit is due to conclude on Friday, when he and Peng are scheduled to have tea with Trump and First Lady Melania Trump before visiting the National Archives. &nbsp;

Donald Trump and Xi Jinping put personal rapport at the centre of a lavish White House state dinner, with Trump saying they had “never gotten along better”. He also made a notable detour to one of his signature projects at the White House: the construction of a new ballroom.

US President Donald Trump used the White House state dinner for Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday (Sep 24) to praise their relationship, saying the two had “never gotten along better” and thanking Xi for making the long journey from China to Washington. The dinner came during Xi's first state visit to the United States in more than a decade, with the leaders trying to manage tensions over trade, Taiwan, artificial intelligence and the war in Iran. Trump had earlier in the day described the talks as a major meeting and said the two sides had made “tremendous strides”. During the dinner speech, Trump largely stuck to his prepared remarks during the dinner, which celebrated US-China ties, but made an unscripted detour to one of his signature projects at the White House: the construction of a new ballroom. Also read | 'Making history': Xi praises Trump as US-China leaders dine at White House Trump praises Xi, US-China ties The president's formal remarks focused mainly on the long history of relations between the United States and China and his assessment of the current relationship with Xi. Thanking the Chinese leader for travelling to the US, Trump said: “We’ve never gotten along better.” Referring to the broader US-China relationship, Trump acknowledged the political and economic differences between Washington and Beijing while highlighting areas where the two countries have common interests. “President Xi and I both understand that we represent different systems, but the ties between our people endure,” Trump said. However, he repeatedly emphasised his personal relationship with Xi in the run-up to the visit, describing it as a key part of managing disagreements between the two governments. Xi calls for peaceful coexistence Xi struck a more measured tone during his own remarks. He called on China and the United States to maintain communication, manage their differences and “coexist in peace”. “China and the United States must act as responsible major countries,” Xi said, according to reports of his remarks. He also said the two countries could gain from cooperation and lose from confrontation. Also read | SPY VS SPY: As Xi meets Trump, a 12-year history of US-China espionage accusations | WION Decodes Trump's ballroom detour Turning to Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, Trump said they could be the first guests to enter the ballroom, even though the project remains under construction and is still about a year from completion. “As a special treat, you could be the first people to enter our ballroom,” Trump said. He then joked about the unfinished site, telling guests that anyone interested could take a look after the evening’s entertainment. “Anybody who wants to walk into a construction site that’s nice and clean and sparkling, it’s our honour to have you do so,” Trump said. Xi's state visit is due to conclude on Friday, when he and Peng are scheduled to have tea with Trump and First Lady Melania Trump before visiting the National Archives.

Donald Trump and Xi Jinping put personal rapport at the centre of a lavish White House state dinner, with Trump saying they had “never gotten along better”. He also made a notable detour to one of his signature projects at the White House: the construction of a new ballroom.

‘We’ve never gotten along better’: Trump praises Xi, jokes about White House ballroom at high-stakes state dinner

Chinese President Xi Jinping addressed guests at a White House state dinner, praising President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump for the warm welcome extended to him and his wife. Xi said Trump and the first lady received them with ‘meticulous care and consideration’, making them ‘feel truly at home’. Reflecting on Trump’s visit to China in May, Xi said the two leaders were now ‘making history in our bilateral engagements’. "We agreed to build a constructive China-US relationship of strategic stability," Xi said.&nbsp;He added that the two leaders had held sincere and in-depth exchanges during the day, saying the discussions would help strengthen relations between Washington and Beijing. Like Trump, Xi's remarks were heavy on praise, with the Chinese leader highlighting the cultural and historical ties between the two countries. Xi said he and Trump had ‘concrete’ discussions that deepened mutual understanding and advanced what he described as ‘strategic stability’.&nbsp;He also invoked the history of US-China relations, saying the friendship between the two nations was ‘forged in blood and fire’ during their shared fight against Japan in the Second World War. Xi pointed to the ‘ping pong’ diplomacy of the Nixon administration as another important moment that helped advance ties between Washington and Beijing. His remarks focused more heavily on history and the long-term relationship between the two countries than Trump's earlier comments.&nbsp;As the dinner continued, the meal had apparently not yet been served, although wine glasses had been topped up. Xi said the goals of the United States and China could be "mutually reinforcing" and called on both sides to act responsibly in managing their relationship. "President Trump has pledged to make American great again," Xi said, adding that China was also "committed to achieving great national rejuvenating and Chinese modernisation has kept breaking new ground".&nbsp;The Chinese president urged the two countries to explore a "new approach for major countries to get along". Xi concluded his remarks with a toast to the health of Trump and the first lady and to continued progress in relations between the United States and China.

Xi Jinping praises Donald Trump at a White House state dinner, highlighting US-China history and calling for strategic stability and stronger ties

Chinese President Xi Jinping addressed guests at a White House state dinner, praising President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump for the warm welcome extended to him and his wife. Xi said Trump and the first lady received them with ‘meticulous care and consideration’, making them ‘feel truly at home’. Reflecting on Trump’s visit to China in May, Xi said the two leaders were now ‘making history in our bilateral engagements’. "We agreed to build a constructive China-US relationship of strategic stability," Xi said. He added that the two leaders had held sincere and in-depth exchanges during the day, saying the discussions would help strengthen relations between Washington and Beijing. Like Trump, Xi's remarks were heavy on praise, with the Chinese leader highlighting the cultural and historical ties between the two countries. Xi said he and Trump had ‘concrete’ discussions that deepened mutual understanding and advanced what he described as ‘strategic stability’. He also invoked the history of US-China relations, saying the friendship between the two nations was ‘forged in blood and fire’ during their shared fight against Japan in the Second World War. Xi pointed to the ‘ping pong’ diplomacy of the Nixon administration as another important moment that helped advance ties between Washington and Beijing. His remarks focused more heavily on history and the long-term relationship between the two countries than Trump's earlier comments. As the dinner continued, the meal had apparently not yet been served, although wine glasses had been topped up. Xi said the goals of the United States and China could be "mutually reinforcing" and called on both sides to act responsibly in managing their relationship. "President Trump has pledged to make American great again," Xi said, adding that China was also "committed to achieving great national rejuvenating and Chinese modernisation has kept breaking new ground". The Chinese president urged the two countries to explore a "new approach for major countries to get along". Xi concluded his remarks with a toast to the health of Trump and the first lady and to continued progress in relations between the United States and China.

Chinese President Xi Jinping praises Donald Trump at a White House state dinner, calling for strategic stability and a new approach to US-China relations

'Making history': Xi Jinping praises Trump as US-China leaders dine at White House

US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump are set to host Chinese President Xi Jinping and Madame Peng Liyuan for a lavish state dinner in the East Room of the White House on Thursday (Sep 24). According to the Office of the First Lady, the preparations for the dinner were led by the First Lady. The statement added that the black-tie gathering will be attended by official delegations, business leaders and government officials.The state dinner comes as Trump hosts Xi in Washington for bilateral talks, during which the two leaders are expected to discuss trade, security, AI, war in the Middle East and Taiwan. Welcoming Xi, Trump said that the US and China have a relationship built on “mutual respect” and the two nations “forged a truly great friendship”. Meanwhile, the Chinese president called for deeper communication and cooperation with the United States, warning that growing rivalry between the two powers must not slide into military confrontation.<h2>What’s on the state dinner menu?</h2>According to the official statement, the state dinner’s menu showcases “American ingredients with subtle Chinese influence, bringing the culinary traditions of both nations together.” The dinner will begin with a toast of Schramsberg “Blanc De Noir,” which is a reference to the “Toast to Peace” shared by President Nixon and Premier Zhou Enlai in Beijing in 1972.In the first course, yellow squash velouté will be served. The dish contains a blend of earthy flavours of wild mushrooms sautéed with fresh herbs. It also features crispy pancetta for a savoury and smoky contrast, along with a drizzle of scallion oil.The guests will be served sesame crusted sea bass in the second course. It will be served with crisp baby bok choy, roasted garden eggplant and sauce verte of fresh herbs.The dinner will conclude with vanilla crémeux with sour cherry confit and walnut frangipane. The dessert will also include ice cream prepared with honey harvested at the White House. The First Lady unveiled a new beehive on the property’s grounds in April.<h2>Performances and décor</h2>During the formal dinner, Christopher Macchio will deliver several performances. Macchio is a classically trained tenor who performed at the 2025 Presidential Inauguration. There will also be performances by military musicians from the United States Marines Corps and the United States Army during the evening.The White House evening décor blends Chinese and American traditions, with red blossoms, rich red linens, dahlias, ranunculus, and White House collection vermeil adorning the tables.&nbsp;

Trump and First Lady Melania Trump will host Xi Jinping and Peng Liyuan at a lavish White House state dinner, featuring performances and décor blending Chinese and American traditions. Here’s all you need to know:

US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump are set to host Chinese President Xi Jinping and Madame Peng Liyuan for a lavish state dinner in the East Room of the White House on Thursday (Sep 24). According to the Office of the First Lady, the preparations for the dinner were led by the First Lady. The statement added that the black-tie gathering will be attended by official delegations, business leaders and government officials. The state dinner comes as Trump hosts Xi in Washington for bilateral talks, during which the two leaders are expected to discuss trade, security, AI, war in the Middle East and Taiwan. Welcoming Xi, Trump said that the US and China have a relationship built on “mutual respect” and the two nations “forged a truly great friendship”. Meanwhile, the Chinese president called for deeper communication and cooperation with the United States, warning that growing rivalry between the two powers must not slide into military confrontation. What’s on the state dinner menu? According to the official statement, the state dinner’s menu showcases “American ingredients with subtle Chinese influence, bringing the culinary traditions of both nations together.” The dinner will begin with a toast of Schramsberg “Blanc De Noir,” which is a reference to the “Toast to Peace” shared by President Nixon and Premier Zhou Enlai in Beijing in 1972. In the first course, yellow squash velouté will be served. The dish contains a blend of earthy flavours of wild mushrooms sautéed with fresh herbs. It also features crispy pancetta for a savoury and smoky contrast, along with a drizzle of scallion oil. The guests will be served sesame crusted sea bass in the second course. It will be served with crisp baby bok choy, roasted garden eggplant and sauce verte of fresh herbs. The dinner will conclude with vanilla crémeux with sour cherry confit and walnut frangipane. The dessert will also include ice cream prepared with honey harvested at the White House. The First Lady unveiled a new beehive on the property’s grounds in April. Performances and décor During the formal dinner, Christopher Macchio will deliver several performances. Macchio is a classically trained tenor who performed at the 2025 Presidential Inauguration. There will also be performances by military musicians from the United States Marines Corps and the United States Army during the evening. The White House evening décor blends Chinese and American traditions, with red blossoms, rich red linens, dahlias, ranunculus, and White House collection vermeil adorning the tables.

Trump and First Lady Melania Trump will host Xi Jinping and Peng Liyuan at a lavish White House state dinner, featuring performances and décor blending Chinese and American traditions. Here’s all you need to know:

What’s on the menu? Inside Trump’s lavish White House state dinner for Xi

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday (Sept. 24) announced that two giant pandas will soon arrive at Zoo Atlanta in the United States, following a new conservation agreement announced earlier this year.&nbsp;"In a few days, two pandas, Ping Ping and Fu Shuang, will come to their new home in Zoo Atlanta and meet with the American people," Xi said after arriving at the White House.&nbsp;China’s panda diplomacy began in 1957 when Beijing gifted a giant panda to the Soviet Union as a gesture of friendship. The practice later developed into a way of lending pandas to other countries as symbols of goodwill and soft power.&nbsp;Panda diplomacy gained greater prominence after 1972, following the normalisation of China’s ties with the United States and Japan. The pandas remain Chinese property and are returned to China when their agreements end. Several pandas have returned from countries including the United States, Finland and France.&nbsp;China has also recalled pandas during periods of strained relations with other countries. In January, two popular pandas returned to China from Japan, leaving the country without the animals for the first time in 50 years as ties between the two Asian neighbours came under strain.&nbsp;Panda twins Lei Lei and Xiao Xiao were transported by truck from Ueno Zoological Gardens in Tokyo, where they were born. Their departure disappointed many Japanese fans who had become attached to the four-year-old pandas.<h3>US-China panda ties</h3>Panda diplomacy between the United States and China has also seen periods of closer cooperation and rising tensions. It strengthened after US President Richard Nixon’s historic 1972 visit to China, when Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai gifted Ling Ling and Hsing Hsing to the Smithsonian’s National Zoo in Washington, D.C.&nbsp;However, amid rising tensions between Washington and Beijing in 2023 and 2024, China did not renew any panda leases, leading to the repatriation of several pandas.&nbsp;The situation later began to normalise after Xi fulfilled his promise to send pandas to the United States during the 2023 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit. Yun Chuan and Xin Bao arrived at the San Diego Zoo in June 2024, followed by Bao Li and Qing Bao at the National Zoo in Washington, DC, in October 2024.&nbsp;The latest announcement of Ping Ping and Fu Shuang heading to Zoo Atlanta marks another development in the long-running panda diplomacy between the United States and China.

Chinese President Xi Jinping announced that two giant pandas, Ping Ping and Fu Shuang, will soon arrive at Zoo Atlanta, highlighting the role of panda diplomacy in China’s ties with the United States.

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday (Sept. 24) announced that two giant pandas will soon arrive at Zoo Atlanta in the United States, following a new conservation agreement announced earlier this year. "In a few days, two pandas, Ping Ping and Fu Shuang, will come to their new home in Zoo Atlanta and meet with the American people," Xi said after arriving at the White House. China’s panda diplomacy began in 1957 when Beijing gifted a giant panda to the Soviet Union as a gesture of friendship. The practice later developed into a way of lending pandas to other countries as symbols of goodwill and soft power. Panda diplomacy gained greater prominence after 1972, following the normalisation of China’s ties with the United States and Japan. The pandas remain Chinese property and are returned to China when their agreements end. Several pandas have returned from countries including the United States, Finland and France. China has also recalled pandas during periods of strained relations with other countries. In January, two popular pandas returned to China from Japan, leaving the country without the animals for the first time in 50 years as ties between the two Asian neighbours came under strain. Panda twins Lei Lei and Xiao Xiao were transported by truck from Ueno Zoological Gardens in Tokyo, where they were born. Their departure disappointed many Japanese fans who had become attached to the four-year-old pandas. US-China panda ties Panda diplomacy between the United States and China has also seen periods of closer cooperation and rising tensions. It strengthened after US President Richard Nixon’s historic 1972 visit to China, when Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai gifted Ling Ling and Hsing Hsing to the Smithsonian’s National Zoo in Washington, D.C. However, amid rising tensions between Washington and Beijing in 2023 and 2024, China did not renew any panda leases, leading to the repatriation of several pandas. The situation later began to normalise after Xi fulfilled his promise to send pandas to the United States during the 2023 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit. Yun Chuan and Xin Bao arrived at the San Diego Zoo in June 2024, followed by Bao Li and Qing Bao at the National Zoo in Washington, DC, in October 2024. The latest announcement of Ping Ping and Fu Shuang heading to Zoo Atlanta marks another development in the long-running panda diplomacy between the United States and China.

Chinese President Xi Jinping announced that two giant pandas, Ping Ping and Fu Shuang, will soon arrive at Zoo Atlanta, highlighting the role of panda diplomacy in China’s ties with the United States.

Xi announces two pandas for Atlanta Zoo during US visit: What is China’s panda diplomacy?

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday (Sep 24) called for deeper communication and cooperation with the United States, warning that growing rivalry between the two powers must not slide into military confrontation. Speaking at the start of his meeting with US President Donald Trump at the White House, Xi said both countries should work to understand their differences while building trust.“We should strengthen communication. China and the United States are different in national conditions, but through candid, in-depth and continued dialogue, our two countries can understand each other better, seek common ground while shelving differences, and build up mutual trust,” Xi said.He urged the two countries to “coexist in peace” and said both sides would suffer from a conflict.“China and the United States, as two major countries, stand to gain from cooperation and will both lose in a confrontation,” Xi said.<h2>Xi invokes ‘Thucydides trap’</h2>Xi also called for stronger military-to-military communication and better mechanisms to prevent crises from escalating.“Our two militaries should maintain regular dialogue and improve mechanisms for crisis communication and prevention,” he said.The Chinese president said these measures could help the US and China avoid the “Thucydides trap”, a term used to describe tensions that can emerge when a rising power challenges an established one.“With such conditions in place, the Thucydides trap can be overcome,” Xi said.His comments came as Washington and Beijing remain locked in competition over trade, technology and artificial intelligence. Their meeting is also expected to cover Taiwan and other sensitive geopolitical issues.<h2>What Xi said on AI and trade</h2>Xi said the two countries have a shared responsibility in managing AI and should “ensure the development of AI is always under human control and serve the wellbeing of the people.”He also said China welcomes American companies and investors, while calling for Chinese firms to be “treated fairly” in the US.“China keeps its door wide open and welcomes American companies who want to do business and invest there,” he said. “We hope Chinese companies are treated fairly here in the United States”.The Chinese president invited 100,000 American students to visit China over the next five years for exchanges and study.Trump, meanwhile, praised his relationship with Xi, calling it a “truly great friendship” and saying the two nations had made “tremendous strides” on issues facing them.

Xi Jinping urged Donald Trump to strengthen US-China communication, warning both nations would lose in confrontation. He called for peace, military dialogue, AI cooperation and fair trade ties.

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday (Sep 24) called for deeper communication and cooperation with the United States, warning that growing rivalry between the two powers must not slide into military confrontation. Speaking at the start of his meeting with US President Donald Trump at the White House, Xi said both countries should work to understand their differences while building trust. “We should strengthen communication. China and the United States are different in national conditions, but through candid, in-depth and continued dialogue, our two countries can understand each other better, seek common ground while shelving differences, and build up mutual trust,” Xi said. He urged the two countries to “coexist in peace” and said both sides would suffer from a conflict. “China and the United States, as two major countries, stand to gain from cooperation and will both lose in a confrontation,” Xi said. Xi invokes ‘Thucydides trap’ Xi also called for stronger military-to-military communication and better mechanisms to prevent crises from escalating. “Our two militaries should maintain regular dialogue and improve mechanisms for crisis communication and prevention,” he said. The Chinese president said these measures could help the US and China avoid the “Thucydides trap”, a term used to describe tensions that can emerge when a rising power challenges an established one. “With such conditions in place, the Thucydides trap can be overcome,” Xi said. His comments came as Washington and Beijing remain locked in competition over trade, technology and artificial intelligence. Their meeting is also expected to cover Taiwan and other sensitive geopolitical issues. What Xi said on AI and trade Xi said the two countries have a shared responsibility in managing AI and should “ensure the development of AI is always under human control and serve the wellbeing of the people.” He also said China welcomes American companies and investors, while calling for Chinese firms to be “treated fairly” in the US. “China keeps its door wide open and welcomes American companies who want to do business and invest there,” he said. “We hope Chinese companies are treated fairly here in the United States”. The Chinese president invited 100,000 American students to visit China over the next five years for exchanges and study. Trump, meanwhile, praised his relationship with Xi, calling it a “truly great friendship” and saying the two nations had made “tremendous strides” on issues facing them.

Xi Jinping urged Donald Trump to strengthen US-China communication, warning that both nations would lose in a confrontation. He called for peace, military dialogue, AI cooperation and fair trade ties.

‘Both will lose in confrontation’: Xi says US and China should ‘coexist in peace’

US President Donald Trump’s decision to greet Chinese President Xi Jinping on the tarmac at Joint Base Andrews on Wednesday (Sep 23) quickly became a talking point, but not only because of the diplomatic significance of the visit. Trump appeared at the Maryland military base wearing a heavy winter coat and leather gloves as Xi arrived for his US visit. The temperature was around 64-65 degrees Fahrenheit (about 18 degrees Celsius), prompting social media users to question the unusual choice of attire.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">it is 64 degrees at Joint Base Andrews right now and yet Trump is wearing gloves are he greets President Xi <a href="https://t.co/bEmcvgZXyb">pic.twitter.com/bEmcvgZXyb</a>&mdash; Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) <a href="https://x.com/atrupar/status/2102882668052443297?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Video from the ceremony showed US Marines preparing a red carpet as Xi walked down the aircraft stairs. Trump and Xi, accompanied by their spouses, then stood side by side for the national anthems as cannons fired a ceremonial salute.A military jet flew overhead during the proceedings. Trump visibly winced as the aircraft passed, while Xi appeared to watch calmly.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Hasan Piker reacts to Donald Trump getting spooked by his own jets during his military airshow greeting with Xi Jinping 😭 <a href="https://t.co/KDEAAcyokf">pic.twitter.com/KDEAAcyokf</a>&mdash; adri ♡ (@socialistadri) <a href="https://x.com/socialistadri/status/2102883944022556840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>A break from usual protocol</h2>The elaborate tarmac welcome also marked a departure from the more restrained protocol generally used for leaders of major US rivals.Trump has previously opted for highly visible welcomes, including during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s 2025 visit to Alaska, when a red carpet was rolled out for him.Former President Joe Biden, meanwhile, greeted Xi in San Francisco in 2024 after the Chinese leader arrived at the location of their summit. That meeting also featured a military guard and red carpet, but not at the airport tarmac.<h2>Trade tensions shadow Xi’s visit</h2>Xi’s visit comes amid continuing disputes between Washington and Beijing over trade, artificial intelligence and semiconductors. Trump has faced criticism from some domestic opponents over his approach towards China.Ahead of Xi’s arrival, a Republican senator who is generally aligned with the White House also criticised what was described as a “lavish” welcome for the Chinese president.&nbsp;

Trump’s unusual winter attire and elaborate tarmac welcome for Xi Jinping at Joint Base Andrews drew attention, as US-China tensions over trade, AI and semiconductors continue.

US President Donald Trump’s decision to greet Chinese President Xi Jinping on the tarmac at Joint Base Andrews on Wednesday (Sep 23) quickly became a talking point, but not only because of the diplomatic significance of the visit. Trump appeared at the Maryland military base wearing a heavy winter coat and leather gloves as Xi arrived for his US visit. The temperature was around 64-65 degrees Fahrenheit (about 18 degrees Celsius), prompting social media users to question the unusual choice of attire.

Trump’s unusual winter attire and elaborate tarmac welcome for Xi Jinping at Joint Base Andrews drew attention, as US-China tensions over trade, AI and semiconductors continue.

Winter coat, gloves in September? Trump’s Xi welcome sparks social media buzz

Chinese President Xi Jinping has arrived in Washington for his first state visit in 11 years and he is being companied by his wife – Chinese First Lady Peng Liyuan. While the focus remains on his meeting with US President Donald Trump, the Chinese First Lady also has a busy schedule during these three-day visit to the US. Peng is scheduled to join US First Lady Melania Trump for a visit to the Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art and will attend the White House state dinner with Xi on September 24. The two first ladies are also expected to have separate engagements during the summit. As the Chinese President and First Lady landed in Maryland this morning, Peng greeted and met Trump and Melania. She wore a dove grey (or pale grey-blue) dress paired with a pale, light-colored scarf wrapped around her neck when she landed at Joint Base Andrews.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/partners-rather-than-rivals-xi-jinping-s-first-message-after-landing-in-us-for-trump-summit-1790209651359">'Partners rather than rivals': Xi Jinping's first message after landing in US</a><h2>Peng Liyuan’s life&nbsp;</h2>Peng was born in 1962 in Shandong province. Her mother was a Chinese opera performer and she learnt folk and soprano at home. At the age of 14, she gained admission to the Shandong University of Arts as a vocational training student specialising in Chinese folk songs. In 1980, Peng joined the People’s Liberation Army to work as a “arts and cultural warrior.” She became a part of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Music Band. It was there that she became a national star with her soaring, glass-breaking voice and patriotic folk songs. Interestingly, In an interview with Chinese television in 2004, Peng said her father was categorised as a “counter-revolutionary” because some of their relatives served in the Taiwanese army. In 1986, Peng met 33-year-old Xi Jinping, who was then a divorced deputy mayor of Xiamen city in Fujian Province. The couple married a year later in 1987 and welcomed their daughter, Xi Mingze, in 1992. According to reports, she was more famous than her husband till 2012. In 2012, Xi became general secretary of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and in 2013 the president of China.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-welcomes-xi-jinping-in-rare-airport-gesture-photos-from-chinese-president-s-arrival-in-us-1790202905194">Trump welcomes Xi Jinping in rare airport gesture</a>&nbsp;However, unlike other spouses of Chinese prime ministers, Peng has remained in spotlight. Peng is often referred to as “Mama Peng”, while Xi is called “Xi Dada”, which could mean either Papa Xi or Uncle Xi as she wields significant unofficial power in China's administrative and military affairs. As first lady, Peng took on several diplomatic roles. In 2011, she was made a World Health Organisation goodwill ambassador for tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS. In 2014, UNESCO appointed her a Special Envoy for the Advancement of Girls’ and Women’s Education, citing her advocacy for education and women’s empowerment.&nbsp;She has also held senior positions within the PLA’s cultural institutions and has been associated with the People’s Liberation Army Art Academy.Peng has also accompanied Xi on many foreign visits, from Russia to the US and more. Her sartorial choices has always made headlines. During her first overseas visit as first lady to Russia in 2013, she whipped up a fervour for her outfits. Her name became one of the most commonly searched terms on Weibo, China’s version of Twitter. Reports said copies of her winter coat and blue scarf flew off the cyber-shelves of Taobao, an Amazon-like Chinese company.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Peng Liyuan, China's First Lady and wife of Xi Jinping, was a celebrated folk singer before taking on a prominent diplomatic role. Known for her fashion and cultural diplomacy, she is joining Xi on his US visit and is scheduled to meet Melania Trump during the state visit.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has arrived in Washington for his first state visit in 11 years and he is being companied by his wife – Chinese First Lady Peng Liyuan. While the focus remains on his meeting with US President Donald Trump, the Chinese First Lady also has a busy schedule during these three-day visit to the US. Peng is scheduled to join US First Lady Melania Trump for a visit to the Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art and will attend the White House state dinner with Xi on September 24. The two first ladies are also expected to have separate engagements during the summit. As the Chinese President and First Lady landed in Maryland this morning, Peng greeted and met Trump and Melania. She wore a dove grey (or pale grey-blue) dress paired with a pale, light-colored scarf wrapped around her neck when she landed at Joint Base Andrews. Also Read: 'Partners rather than rivals': Xi Jinping's first message after landing in US Peng Liyuan’s life Peng was born in 1962 in Shandong province. Her mother was a Chinese opera performer and she learnt folk and soprano at home. At the age of 14, she gained admission to the Shandong University of Arts as a vocational training student specialising in Chinese folk songs. In 1980, Peng joined the People’s Liberation Army to work as a “arts and cultural warrior.” She became a part of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Music Band. It was there that she became a national star with her soaring, glass-breaking voice and patriotic folk songs. Interestingly, In an interview with Chinese television in 2004, Peng said her father was categorised as a “counter-revolutionary” because some of their relatives served in the Taiwanese army. In 1986, Peng met 33-year-old Xi Jinping, who was then a divorced deputy mayor of Xiamen city in Fujian Province. The couple married a year later in 1987 and welcomed their daughter, Xi Mingze, in 1992. According to reports, she was more famous than her husband till 2012. In 2012, Xi became general secretary of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and in 2013 the president of China. Also Read: Trump welcomes Xi Jinping in rare airport gesture However, unlike other spouses of Chinese prime ministers, Peng has remained in spotlight. Peng is often referred to as “Mama Peng”, while Xi is called “Xi Dada”, which could mean either Papa Xi or Uncle Xi as she wields significant unofficial power in China's administrative and military affairs. As first lady, Peng took on several diplomatic roles. In 2011, she was made a World Health Organisation goodwill ambassador for tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS. In 2014, UNESCO appointed her a Special Envoy for the Advancement of Girls’ and Women’s Education, citing her advocacy for education and women’s empowerment. She has also held senior positions within the PLA’s cultural institutions and has been associated with the People’s Liberation Army Art Academy. Peng has also accompanied Xi on many foreign visits, from Russia to the US and more. Her sartorial choices has always made headlines. During her first overseas visit as first lady to Russia in 2013, she whipped up a fervour for her outfits. Her name became one of the most commonly searched terms on Weibo, China’s version of Twitter. Reports said copies of her winter coat and blue scarf flew off the cyber-shelves of Taobao, an Amazon-like Chinese company.

Peng Liyuan, China's First Lady and wife of Xi Jinping, was a celebrated folk singer before taking on a prominent diplomatic role. Known for her fashion and cultural diplomacy, she is joining Xi on his US visit and is scheduled to meet Melania Trump during the state visit.

Who is Peng Liyuan? Xi Jinping's singer wife and China's most visible First Lady

Chinese President Xi Jinping has landed in Washington but here we focus on the aircraft that carried him and how it stacks up against America’s presidential plane. The aircraft carrying China’s leader is referred to in state media and official statements as a zhuan ji, or special plane. Like Air Force One, this is also Boeing 747 but is lesser known. He landed at Joint Base Andrews on a heavily modified Air China Boeing 747-8 Intercontinental.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/partners-rather-than-rivals-xi-jinping-s-first-message-after-landing-in-us-for-trump-summit-1790209651359">'Partners rather than rivals': Xi Jinping's first message after landing in US</a>&nbsp;However, across the Pacific Ocean, China does not operate a dedicated presidential aircraft. Aircraft used for Xi’s overseas trips have been drawn from Air China’s fleet and specially prepared for presidential travel. Just last weekend, Xi was in New Delhi aboard a Boeing 747-8. It is the passenger version of the 747-8 and the last passenger variant of the 747 ever built. Unlike the US, China has released relatively little public information about the aircraft used by its top leader. In 2013, when Xi had just taken office, his overseas trips were carried out on Air China Boeing 747-400s. Whether for domestic or international missions, the dispatch and deployment of special aircraft are subject to strict procedures and a high level of confidentiality.&nbsp;Also Read; <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-welcomes-xi-jinping-in-rare-airport-gesture-photos-from-chinese-president-s-arrival-in-us-1790202905194">Trump welcomes Xi Jinping in rare airport gesture</a>&nbsp;While the White House maintains a dedicated web page on Air Force One that details its aircraft designation, tail numbers, on-board facilities and history, China receives the flight assignment and passes it to Air China through its office overseeing special flights, according to a rare media account in 2014. The crew would be determined and security checks and modifications to the aircraft carried out.&nbsp;Since there is no dedicated flight it is not a recognisable visual identity like Air Force One. The words “United States of America”, the American flag and the seal of the US president are emblazoned on its exterior, making the aircraft an immediately identifiable symbol of the American presidency wherever it flies. Trump currently flies on the VC-25B Bridge, a modified Boeing 747-8I introduced earlier this year as a temporary presidential aircraft. Estimated to be worth $400 million, it was gifted by Qatar’s royal family and offers greater speed and range than the older VC-25A planes.

Xi Jinping's aircraft for overseas trips is an Air China Boeing 747 specially modified for presidential travel, unlike the US's dedicated Air Force One fleet. Xi's plane has executive, official and media sections, while Air Force One has secure communications, medical suite

Chinese President Xi Jinping has landed in Washington but here we focus on the aircraft that carried him and how it stacks up against America’s presidential plane. The aircraft carrying China’s leader is referred to in state media and official statements as a zhuan ji, or special plane. Like Air Force One, this is also Boeing 747 but is lesser known. He landed at Joint Base Andrews on a heavily modified Air China Boeing 747-8 Intercontinental. Also Read: 'Partners rather than rivals': Xi Jinping's first message after landing in US However, across the Pacific Ocean, China does not operate a dedicated presidential aircraft. Aircraft used for Xi’s overseas trips have been drawn from Air China’s fleet and specially prepared for presidential travel. Just last weekend, Xi was in New Delhi aboard a Boeing 747-8. It is the passenger version of the 747-8 and the last passenger variant of the 747 ever built. Unlike the US, China has released relatively little public information about the aircraft used by its top leader. In 2013, when Xi had just taken office, his overseas trips were carried out on Air China Boeing 747-400s. Whether for domestic or international missions, the dispatch and deployment of special aircraft are subject to strict procedures and a high level of confidentiality. Also Read; Trump welcomes Xi Jinping in rare airport gesture While the White House maintains a dedicated web page on Air Force One that details its aircraft designation, tail numbers, on-board facilities and history, China receives the flight assignment and passes it to Air China through its office overseeing special flights, according to a rare media account in 2014. The crew would be determined and security checks and modifications to the aircraft carried out. Since there is no dedicated flight it is not a recognisable visual identity like Air Force One. The words “United States of America”, the American flag and the seal of the US president are emblazoned on its exterior, making the aircraft an immediately identifiable symbol of the American presidency wherever it flies. Trump currently flies on the VC-25B Bridge, a modified Boeing 747-8I introduced earlier this year as a temporary presidential aircraft. Estimated to be worth $400 million, it was gifted by Qatar’s royal family and offers greater speed and range than the older VC-25A planes.

Xi Jinping's aircraft for overseas trips is an Air China Boeing 747 specially modified for presidential travel, unlike the US's dedicated Air Force One fleet. Xi's plane has executive, official and media sections, while Air Force One has secure communications, medical suite

Xi Jinping's 'special plane' vs Trump's Air Force One: What's the difference?

Chinese President Xi Jinping has arrived for his first state visit to the United States in 11 years, meeting Donald Trump for the second time this year. Trade, AI, tariffs, rare earths, Taiwan and the Iran war top the agenda. Analysts expect a visit heavy on optics and symbolism but light on substantive progress, as commitments from May's Beijing summit remain unevenly fulfilled.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-xi-summit-xi-arrives-in-us-to-personal-trump-welcome-179023173096/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-xi-summit-xi-arrives-in-us-to-personal-trump-welcome-179023173096/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Mar-a-Lago to a trade war: 2017-2020&nbsp;The leaders first met at Mar-a-Lago in April 2017, where they set up a 100-day trade plan. Trump made a state visit to Beijing that November, where companies announced deals worth about $250 billion. In December 2018, the two leaders met at the G20 in Buenos Aires and agreed to a 90-day tariff truce. They met again at the G20 in Osaka in June 2019 to restart stalled talks. In January 2020, the two sides signed the "Phase One" deal, in which China pledged to buy an additional $200 billion of American goods over two years.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/partners-rather-than-rivals-xi-jinping-s-first-message-after-landing-in-us-for-trump-summit-1790209651359">'Partners rather than rivals': Xi Jinping's first message after landing in US for Trump summit</a>&nbsp;Busan: October 2025&nbsp;Relations soured badly in 2025. US tariffs on Chinese imports hit 145% at the peak of the trade war, while Beijing's retaliatory duties reached 125%. The two leaders met in Busan, South Korea, on 30 October. China pledged to resume imports of soybeans and other US agricultural products, and both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation against fentanyl. The US said China agreed to buy at least 25 million metric tons of American soybeans in each of the following three years.&nbsp;Beijing: May 2026&nbsp;Trump visited China on May 14 and 15 for the first time in eight years. The summit produced purchase agreements, two new bilateral boards, and a shared commitment to "constructive strategic stability." The White House said China would buy at least $17 billion of U.S. agricultural goods annually through 2028, on top of its October 2025 soybean commitments. Both sides, however, have largely stuck to their own interpretations of those deals.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-welcomes-xi-jinping-in-rare-airport-gesture-photos-from-chinese-president-s-arrival-in-us-1790202905194">Trump welcomes Xi Jinping in rare airport gesture: Photos from Chinese President's arrival in US</a>&nbsp;Progress Since: Uneven&nbsp;US and China have made uneven progress in fulfilling the trade commitments announced after the Beijing meeting. American officials have complained that China has not upheld its end of the bargain.&nbsp;&nbsp;Washington: September 2026&nbsp;Xi arrived in the United States on Wednesday (Sep 23) evening for his first state visit in 11 years, the second meeting of the two leaders this year. The agenda includes trade, investment, AI, the war with Iran, and Taiwan. Among the discussions is a reciprocal tariff reduction framework on products worth $30 billion or more. Experts expect the visit to be heavy on optics and symbolism but light on substantive progress.&nbsp;Across nearly a decade of meetings, the pattern has been consistent: warm summits and truces that ease tensions without settling the underlying disputes over technology, trade balances, and Taiwan. Whether this week's talks break that pattern will be clear only once the outcomes are announced.

Here's the full timeline of key meetings, summits, and major agreements between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, tracking the defining diplomatic milestones in US-China relations.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has arrived for his first state visit to the United States in 11 years, meeting Donald Trump for the second time this year. Trade, AI, tariffs, rare earths, Taiwan and the Iran war top the agenda. Analysts expect a visit heavy on optics and symbolism but light on substantive progress, as commitments from May's Beijing summit remain unevenly fulfilled. https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-xi-summit-xi-arrives-in-us-to-personal-trump-welcome-179023173096/embed Mar-a-Lago to a trade war: 2017-2020 The leaders first met at Mar-a-Lago in April 2017, where they set up a 100-day trade plan. Trump made a state visit to Beijing that November, where companies announced deals worth about $250 billion. In December 2018, the two leaders met at the G20 in Buenos Aires and agreed to a 90-day tariff truce. They met again at the G20 in Osaka in June 2019 to restart stalled talks. In January 2020, the two sides signed the "Phase One" deal, in which China pledged to buy an additional $200 billion of American goods over two years. Also read: 'Partners rather than rivals': Xi Jinping's first message after landing in US for Trump summit Busan: October 2025 Relations soured badly in 2025. US tariffs on Chinese imports hit 145% at the peak of the trade war, while Beijing's retaliatory duties reached 125%. The two leaders met in Busan, South Korea, on 30 October. China pledged to resume imports of soybeans and other US agricultural products, and both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation against fentanyl. The US said China agreed to buy at least 25 million metric tons of American soybeans in each of the following three years. Beijing: May 2026 Trump visited China on May 14 and 15 for the first time in eight years. The summit produced purchase agreements, two new bilateral boards, and a shared commitment to "constructive strategic stability." The White House said China would buy at least $17 billion of U.S. agricultural goods annually through 2028, on top of its October 2025 soybean commitments. Both sides, however, have largely stuck to their own interpretations of those deals. Also read: Trump welcomes Xi Jinping in rare airport gesture: Photos from Chinese President's arrival in US Progress Since: Uneven US and China have made uneven progress in fulfilling the trade commitments announced after the Beijing meeting. American officials have complained that China has not upheld its end of the bargain. Washington: September 2026 Xi arrived in the United States on Wednesday (Sep 23) evening for his first state visit in 11 years, the second meeting of the two leaders this year. The agenda includes trade, investment, AI, the war with Iran, and Taiwan. Among the discussions is a reciprocal tariff reduction framework on products worth $30 billion or more. Experts expect the visit to be heavy on optics and symbolism but light on substantive progress. Across nearly a decade of meetings, the pattern has been consistent: warm summits and truces that ease tensions without settling the underlying disputes over technology, trade balances, and Taiwan. Whether this week's talks break that pattern will be clear only once the outcomes are announced.

Here's the full timeline of key meetings, summits, and major agreements between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, tracking the defining diplomatic milestones in US-China relations.

Trump and Xi Jinping: Timeline of key meetings and major agreements

President Donald Trump appeared to react to the noise during a military flyover staged as Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in the United States. Xi, 73, maintained a serious expression as the aircraft approached, while Trump, 80, appeared to duck and briefly bare his teeth as B-1 bombers flew overhead. Trump continued watching the aircraft as they passed, pursing his lips before appearing to say something to Xi Jinping with a slight smile. The flyover was part of the ceremonial welcome for the Chinese president.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-pm-anthony-albanese-calls-openai-ai-incident-unacceptable-after-restricted-data-access-1790212209104">Australian PM Anthony Albanese calls OpenAI AI incident 'unacceptable' after restricted data access</a><h2>Watch the video here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Trump and Xi react as a B-1 aircraft flies overhead. <a href="https://t.co/lsC8fIVIOD">pic.twitter.com/lsC8fIVIOD</a>&mdash; Clash Report (@clashreport) <a href="https://x.com/clashreport/status/2102887829177242007?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in the United States on Wednesday (September 23) ahead of a high-stakes summit with US President Donald Trump, who was present at the airport to welcome his Chinese counterpart. Xi’s aircraft, bearing the words ‘Air China’ on its side, landed at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, near Washington, before taxiing to a stop. His arrival marked the start of a three-day state visit featuring formal ceremonies and a series of diplomatic engagements.&nbsp;Trump and First Lady Melania Trump welcomed Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, on a red carpet laid out on the tarmac. The two couples exchanged handshakes and smiles and briefly spoke during the formal welcome ceremony. The United States also staged a prominent display of military aircraft for Xi’s arrival, with six F-22 fighter jets and six F-16s positioned on the tarmac as officials rolled out the red carpet for the Chinese president.&nbsp;After accompanying Xi Jinping to his vehicle, US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump got into the presidential limousine, known as “The Beast.” Trump then boarded Marine One for the flight back to the White House. It is uncommon for US presidents to meet visiting foreign leaders at Joint Base Andrews, as such dignitaries are typically welcomed at the White House with a formal ceremony. Trump, however, traveled to the air base to personally greet Xi. Trump is scheduled to welcome the Chinese president once again at the White House on Thursday morning as part of Xi’s three-day state visit.

Donald Trump reacts during a military flyover featuring B-1 bombers as Chinese President Xi Jinping arrives in the United States for a state visit

President Donald Trump appeared to react to the noise during a military flyover staged as Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in the United States. Xi, 73, maintained a serious expression as the aircraft approached, while Trump, 80, appeared to duck and briefly bare his teeth as B-1 bombers flew overhead. Trump continued watching the aircraft as they passed, pursing his lips before appearing to say something to Xi Jinping with a slight smile. The flyover was part of the ceremonial welcome for the Chinese president. Also Read: Australian PM Anthony Albanese calls OpenAI AI incident 'unacceptable' after restricted data access Watch the video here

Donald Trump appeared to react to the noise as B-1 bombers flew overhead during a military flyover marking Xi Jinping’s arrival in the US

WATCH | Trump's reaction to B-1 bomber flyover during Xi's arrival goes viral

Chinese President Xi Jinping has issued his first statement after landing in United States on Thursday (Sep 24). In a written statement released by state news agency Xinhua, Xi said that China and the United States “should be partners rather than rivals.” &nbsp;Highlighting the people to people ties between the two countries, Xi said that interests are “deeply intertwined.” In a direct message to US President Donald Trump, Xi said that his vision of ‘Make America Great Again’ can be aligned with the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation and in turn benefit the world. Stating that the differences between both sides are “manageable,” the Chinese premier also added that he is hoping for a stable relationship with the US and a path where two major powers can co-exist.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-china-president-xi-jinping-lands-in-us-as-trump-greets-him-ahead-of-high-stakes-summit-1790200343022">WATCH | China President Xi Jinping lands in US as Trump greets him</a><h2>FULL STATEMENT BY XI JINPING&nbsp;</h2>“China and the United States should be partners rather than rivals. The peoples of the two countries have long enjoyed friendly exchanges, and their interests are deeply intertwined. The realisation of the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation and ‘Make America Great Again’ can be mutually inclusive – they can reinforce one another and benefit the world,” Xi said. He added, ”Both sides should work to build a stable relationship defined by cooperation as the mainstay, with moderate competition and manageable differences, and chart the right path for the two major powers to coexist.With the joint efforts of both sides, the visit will yield fruitful results, enhance the well-being of both peoples and bring renewed hope for world peace."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-is-going-to-be-in-america-but-not-at-the-un-why-china-s-president-chose-trump-over-the-general-assembly-1790065329581">Xi is going to be in America, but not at the UN: Why</a><h2>Trump breaks protocol to welcome Xi Jinping</h2>The statement by the Chinese premier came after he was recieved by Trump at the Joint Base Andrews airbase in Maryland in a rare gesture. While Trump and first lady Melania chose to break the protocol as they welcomed Xi and Chinese First Lady Peng Liyuan on the tarmac at Joint Base Andrews, senior cabinet officials from Trump administration was not present. The Chinese president received a lavish welcome, with a 100-foot-long red carpet, a 21-person honour cordon and two three-person colour teams carrying the American and Chinese flags. The ceremony also featured three five-person platoons from each military service, two B-1 Lancer flyovers and two American children presenting flowers to Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan.&nbsp;

Chinese President Xi Jinping said China and the US “should be partners rather than rivals” after landing in America for his summit with Trump. Xi said their interests are deeply intertwined and that “Make America Great Again” can align with China's vision

Chinese President Xi Jinping has issued his first statement after landing in United States on Thursday (Sep 24). In a written statement released by state news agency Xinhua, Xi said that China and the United States “should be partners rather than rivals.” Highlighting the people to people ties between the two countries, Xi said that interests are “deeply intertwined.” In a direct message to US President Donald Trump, Xi said that his vision of ‘Make America Great Again’ can be aligned with the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation and in turn benefit the world. Stating that the differences between both sides are “manageable,” the Chinese premier also added that he is hoping for a stable relationship with the US and a path where two major powers can co-exist. WATCH | China President Xi Jinping lands in US as Trump greets him FULL STATEMENT BY XI JINPING “China and the United States should be partners rather than rivals. The peoples of the two countries have long enjoyed friendly exchanges, and their interests are deeply intertwined. The realisation of the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation and ‘Make America Great Again’ can be mutually inclusive – they can reinforce one another and benefit the world,” Xi said. He added, ”Both sides should work to build a stable relationship defined by cooperation as the mainstay, with moderate competition and manageable differences, and chart the right path for the two major powers to coexist. With the joint efforts of both sides, the visit will yield fruitful results, enhance the well-being of both peoples and bring renewed hope for world peace." Also Read: Xi is going to be in America, but not at the UN: Why Trump breaks protocol to welcome Xi Jinping The statement by the Chinese premier came after he was recieved by Trump at the Joint Base Andrews airbase in Maryland in a rare gesture. While Trump and first lady Melania chose to break the protocol as they welcomed Xi and Chinese First Lady Peng Liyuan on the tarmac at Joint Base Andrews, senior cabinet officials from Trump administration was not present. The Chinese president received a lavish welcome, with a 100-foot-long red carpet, a 21-person honour cordon and two three-person colour teams carrying the American and Chinese flags. The ceremony also featured three five-person platoons from each military service, two B-1 Lancer flyovers and two American children presenting flowers to Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan.

Chinese President Xi Jinping said China and the US “should be partners rather than rivals” after landing in America for his summit with Trump. Xi said their interests are deeply intertwined and that “Make America Great Again” can align with China's vision

'Partners rather than rivals': Xi Jinping's first message after landing in US for Trump summit

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Wednesday that Washington and Beijing have agreed to extend their trade truce by two months, pushing the expiration date from November 10 to January 10. The agreement followed marathon negotiations between Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng, with talks taking place in New York on Sunday and Washington on Wednesday. The announcement came as Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in the United States ahead of a high-stakes meeting with President Donald Trump scheduled for Thursday.&nbsp;"We have agreed today that we will extend what we call the Busan Agreement, the economic detente between the two countries that was scheduled to end on November 10th," Bessent told Fox News in an interview. "That is going to be extended until January 10th to give us more time to see what we can do on the economic front," he added. The trade truce, which took effect last year following an agreement between Trump and Xi, included measures aimed at reducing escalating tariffs imposed by both countries. Under the arrangement, Washington and Beijing agreed to lower tit-for-tat tariffs, while the United States also extended certain tariff exclusions.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-welcomes-xi-jinping-in-rare-airport-gesture-photos-from-chinese-president-s-arrival-in-us-1790202905194">Trump welcomes Xi Jinping in rare airport gesture: Photos from Chinese President's arrival in US</a>&nbsp;The US had additionally agreed to suspend responsive measures stemming from an investigation into China's shipbuilding industry. Bessent said that there could also be scope for both countries to reduce tariffs on roughly $30 billion worth of non-sensitive goods. The possibility remains under discussion. Following several hours of negotiations on Sunday involving Bessent, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and their Chinese counterparts, Greer said the two sides were continuing to work through the issue.&nbsp;The negotiations have also extended beyond trade. Washington and Beijing discussed establishing a notification system that would allow both governments to flag incidents or potential threats involving artificial intelligence. The latest agreement comes as the Trump-Xi summit is expected to address broader economic and technology-related issues in US-China relations.

US and China agree to extend their trade truce until January 10 as Xi Jinping arrives for a Trump summit focused on tariffs, trade and AI concerns

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Wednesday that Washington and Beijing have agreed to extend their trade truce by two months, pushing the expiration date from November 10 to January 10. The agreement followed marathon negotiations between Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng, with talks taking place in New York on Sunday and Washington on Wednesday. The announcement came as Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in the United States ahead of a high-stakes meeting with President Donald Trump scheduled for Thursday. "We have agreed today that we will extend what we call the Busan Agreement, the economic detente between the two countries that was scheduled to end on November 10th," Bessent told Fox News in an interview. "That is going to be extended until January 10th to give us more time to see what we can do on the economic front," he added. The trade truce, which took effect last year following an agreement between Trump and Xi, included measures aimed at reducing escalating tariffs imposed by both countries. Under the arrangement, Washington and Beijing agreed to lower tit-for-tat tariffs, while the United States also extended certain tariff exclusions. Also Read: Trump welcomes Xi Jinping in rare airport gesture: Photos from Chinese President's arrival in US The US had additionally agreed to suspend responsive measures stemming from an investigation into China's shipbuilding industry. Bessent said that there could also be scope for both countries to reduce tariffs on roughly $30 billion worth of non-sensitive goods. The possibility remains under discussion. Following several hours of negotiations on Sunday involving Bessent, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and their Chinese counterparts, Greer said the two sides were continuing to work through the issue. The negotiations have also extended beyond trade. Washington and Beijing discussed establishing a notification system that would allow both governments to flag incidents or potential threats involving artificial intelligence. The latest agreement comes as the Trump-Xi summit is expected to address broader economic and technology-related issues in US-China relations.

US and China extend their trade truce until January 10 as Xi Jinping arrives in the US for talks with Donald Trump on trade, tariffs and AI risks

US, China extend trade truce by two months as Xi Jinping arrives for high-stakes summit with Trump

Hours before Chinese President Xi Jinping landed in the US for a high-stakes summit with US President Donald Trump, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio moved to restrict visas for those who “engage in or facilitate” birth tourism." In a statement, Rubio said that the restrictions target foreigners who "knowingly engage in, have engaged in, or facilitate birth tourism," including non-citizens who work in the birth tourism industry, as well as fixers who coach visa applicants to commit fraud, as well as others "who support, abet, and enable commercial birth tourism."&nbsp;“By restricting visa issuance of those who both engage in and profit from this fraud, we are sending a clear message: the United States will not allow foreigners to exploit our immigration system and violate the sanctity of US citizenship,” the statement released by Rubio added. The Trump administration has cracked down on birth tourism as it remained key promise of Trump’s immigration agenda. Rubio also said: “The Trump administration is using every tool at our disposal to defend the integrity of U.S. citizenship, protect American public benefits and U.S. taxpayers from exploitation, and safeguard our national security.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/race-to-power/trump-xi-summit-trade-taiwan-and-the-red-lines-shaping-us-china-talks-race-to-power-1790189553089">Trump-Xi Summit: Trade, Taiwan and the red lines shaping US-China talks</a><h2>What is Birth Tourism?</h2>Birth tourism is the practice of travelling to the United States for the primary purpose of giving birth so the child obtains US citizenship. United States and Canada are popular choices for it due to constitutional birthright citizenship laws. While giving birth on foreign soil is not inherently illegal, problems arise when expectant mothers misrepresent their travel intentions or lie on visa applications to hide a late-stage pregnancy from immigration officials, which constitutes visa fraud. Governments have increasingly scrutinized the practice. For instance, the U.S. State Department classifies birth tourism as an impermissible use of a B-1/B-2 visitor visa, and administrative actions have targeted commercial "birth tourism" operations and tightened visa restrictions. China has been a particular focus of federal department as several cases targeting large-scale birth tourism operations catering predominantly to Chinese clients have been caught. Chinese nationals have reportedly travelled to clinics on the West Coast and to Saipan — part of the US Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands — to give birth and obtain citizenship. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-revives-india-middle-east-europe-economic-corridor-as-india-emerges-central-to-west-asia-s-future-1790131037627">Trump revives India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor</a><h2>Xi-Trump visit</h2>Xi Jinping has arrived in the United States, with Trump welcoming him at Joint Base Andrews air base. On September 24, Trump and Jinping will begin with a State Arrival Ceremony at the White House, featuring 479 military personnel from all branches, a full honour cordon, national anthems, remarks by both leaders, a military review and demonstrations, followed by a flyover by a B-2 Spirit and four F-22 Raptors. After the ceremony, Trump and Xi will hold a bilateral meeting, while Melania Trump and Peng Liyuan will visit the Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art. In the evening, Trump and Melania will welcome Xi and Peng at the White House for a State Dinner, where both leaders are expected to deliver remarks. On Friday, September 25, the two couples will have tea in the Red Room before visiting the National Archives to view records significant to US-China relations, where the Trumps will bid farewell to the Chinese leaders.

Hours before Xi Jinping's US visit for a high-stakes Trump summit, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced visa restrictions targeting foreigners who engage in or facilitate birth tourism. The move comes as the Trump administration steps up efforts to curb alleged immigration abuses.

Hours before Chinese President Xi Jinping landed in the US for a high-stakes summit with US President Donald Trump, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio moved to restrict visas for those who “engage in or facilitate” birth tourism." In a statement, Rubio said that the restrictions target foreigners who "knowingly engage in, have engaged in, or facilitate birth tourism," including non-citizens who work in the birth tourism industry, as well as fixers who coach visa applicants to commit fraud, as well as others "who support, abet, and enable commercial birth tourism." “By restricting visa issuance of those who both engage in and profit from this fraud, we are sending a clear message: the United States will not allow foreigners to exploit our immigration system and violate the sanctity of US citizenship,” the statement released by Rubio added. The Trump administration has cracked down on birth tourism as it remained key promise of Trump’s immigration agenda. Rubio also said: “The Trump administration is using every tool at our disposal to defend the integrity of U.S. citizenship, protect American public benefits and U.S. taxpayers from exploitation, and safeguard our national security.” Also Read: Trump-Xi Summit: Trade, Taiwan and the red lines shaping US-China talks What is Birth Tourism? Birth tourism is the practice of travelling to the United States for the primary purpose of giving birth so the child obtains US citizenship. United States and Canada are popular choices for it due to constitutional birthright citizenship laws. While giving birth on foreign soil is not inherently illegal, problems arise when expectant mothers misrepresent their travel intentions or lie on visa applications to hide a late-stage pregnancy from immigration officials, which constitutes visa fraud. Governments have increasingly scrutinized the practice. For instance, the U.S. State Department classifies birth tourism as an impermissible use of a B-1/B-2 visitor visa, and administrative actions have targeted commercial "birth tourism" operations and tightened visa restrictions. China has been a particular focus of federal department as several cases targeting large-scale birth tourism operations catering predominantly to Chinese clients have been caught. Chinese nationals have reportedly travelled to clinics on the West Coast and to Saipan — part of the US Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands — to give birth and obtain citizenship. Also Read: Trump revives India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor Xi-Trump visit Xi Jinping has arrived in the United States, with Trump welcoming him at Joint Base Andrews air base. On September 24, Trump and Jinping will begin with a State Arrival Ceremony at the White House, featuring 479 military personnel from all branches, a full honour cordon, national anthems, remarks by both leaders, a military review and demonstrations, followed by a flyover by a B-2 Spirit and four F-22 Raptors. After the ceremony, Trump and Xi will hold a bilateral meeting, while Melania Trump and Peng Liyuan will visit the Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art. In the evening, Trump and Melania will welcome Xi and Peng at the White House for a State Dinner, where both leaders are expected to deliver remarks. On Friday, September 25, the two couples will have tea in the Red Room before visiting the National Archives to view records significant to US-China relations, where the Trumps will bid farewell to the Chinese leaders.

Hours before Xi Jinping's US visit for a high-stakes Trump summit, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced visa restrictions targeting foreigners who engage in or facilitate birth tourism. The move comes as the Trump administration steps up efforts to curb alleged immigration abuses.

Hours before Xi-Trump meeting, US announces visa curbs targeting birth tourism: What is it?

Trump personally welcomed Xi Jinping at Joint Base Andrews as the Chinese president began his US state visit. See the key moments in these photos

Trump personally welcomed Xi Jinping at Joint Base Andrews, setting the stage for a high-stakes US-China summit on trade, AI, Iran, Taiwan and strategic stability

Trump welcomes Xi Jinping in rare airport gesture: Photos from Chinese President's arrival in US

Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in the United States on Wednesday (September 23) ahead of a high-stakes summit with US President Donald Trump, who was at the airport to welcome his Chinese counterpart. Xi's aircraft, bearing the words ‘Air China’ on its side, landed at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, near Washington, before taxiing to a stop. His arrival marked the beginning of a three-day state visit featuring formal ceremonies and diplomatic engagements.&nbsp;&nbsp;Trump and First Lady Melania Trump welcomed Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, on a red carpet laid out on the tarmac at Joint Base Andrews. The two couples exchanged handshakes and smiles and briefly spoke during the formal welcome ceremony. Six F-22 fighter jets and six F-16s were positioned on the tarmac as US officials rolled out the red carpet for the Chinese leader, presenting a prominent display of American military aircraft during Xi Jinping’s arrival.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/open-ai-anthropic-ceo-urges-caution-over-rapid-ai-development-at-un-security-council-call-for-extreme-care-1790193276828">Open AI, Anthropic CEO urges caution over rapid AI development at UN Security Council, call for ‘extreme care’</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">President Xi is wheels down in Washington, DC <a href="https://t.co/VbCF55yO2A">pic.twitter.com/VbCF55yO2A</a>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://x.com/MargoMartin47/status/2102877465836392492?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

None of the three major US cable networks, CNN, Fox News or MS NOW, are broadcasting Chinese President Xi Jinping’s arrival live. Staff from all three networks were present at the event but were not filming, as a legal battle continues over the White House’s ban on journalists from certain news organisations, including CNN and MS NOW, from its grounds.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🚨 JUST IN: Chinese President Xi Jinping has OFFICIALLY LANDED on US soil at Joint Base Andrews US servicemembers and FIGHTER JETS are there. Heck of a greeting 🔥 President Trump pulled up to the tarmac minutes ago in THE BEAST. He will now receive Xi before departing HISTORY… <a href="https://t.co/MMDq1dxKHg">pic.twitter.com/MMDq1dxKHg</a>&mdash; Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) <a href="https://x.com/EricLDaugh/status/2102875796121477153?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

After walking Xi Jinping to his vehicle, Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump got into the presidential limousine, known as ‘The Beast’. Trump then boarded Marine One, which will carry him back to the White House. It is unusual for US presidents to meet foreign leaders at Joint Base Andrews, as visiting leaders are typically welcomed at the White House with a formal ceremony. Trump, however, traveled to the air base to personally greet Xi and is scheduled to welcome the Chinese president again at the White House on Thursday morning.

Donald Trump and Melania Trump welcome Chinese President Xi Jinping and Peng Liyuan at Joint Base Andrews during a formal red-carpet greeting.

Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in the United States on Wednesday (September 23) ahead of a high-stakes summit with US President Donald Trump, who was at the airport to welcome his Chinese counterpart. Xi's aircraft, bearing the words ‘Air China’ on its side, landed at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, near Washington, before taxiing to a stop. His arrival marked the beginning of a three-day state visit featuring formal ceremonies and diplomatic engagements. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump welcomed Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, on a red carpet laid out on the tarmac at Joint Base Andrews. The two couples exchanged handshakes and smiles and briefly spoke during the formal welcome ceremony. Six F-22 fighter jets and six F-16s were positioned on the tarmac as US officials rolled out the red carpet for the Chinese leader, presenting a prominent display of American military aircraft during Xi Jinping’s arrival. Also Read: Open AI, Anthropic CEO urges caution over rapid AI development at UN Security Council, call for ‘extreme care’

Donald Trump and Melania Trump welcome Xi Jinping and Peng Liyuan at Joint Base Andrews, with the two couples exchanging handshakes and smiles

WATCH | China President Xi Jinping lands in US as Trump greets him ahead of high-stakes summit

Leaders of two global superpowers will be meeting for the second time this year. Four months after visiting Beijing, US President Donald Trump will now host his Chinese counterpart on American soil.This is Xi Jinping's first visit to US in more than 10 years, and the world is watching keenly.&nbsp;The decisions that both countries take and the remarks that are made are bound to have a global impact.&nbsp;A host of issues are expected to be on the agenda for the Trump-Xi summit.&nbsp;Trade could potentially be front and centre in the high-stakes meeting.&nbsp;US and China have been at loggerheads ever since Trump first announced sweeping retaliatory tariffs on all its trade partners.&nbsp;For Beijing and Washington, trade ties reached a new low when both sides slapped high tariffs against each other's goods.&nbsp;Last year's trade war saw US tariffs on Chinese goods rise as high as 145%, while China's retaliatory tariffs reached 125%.While both countries have rolled back few of these measures, many of the tariff rates and the major flashpoints still remain unresolved.&nbsp;The last time the two leaders met was in Beijing in May, but that summit fell short of delivering on several key commitments.&nbsp;But it is a race against time, as a November 10 deadline on the current trade agreement looms large on the upcoming talks.&nbsp;Other important aspects might include cooperation on artificial intelligence risks, and a discussion on critical rare earth minerals as well. But it is not just about what is on agenda.&nbsp;It is also about what might not be on the list for bilateral discussions.&nbsp;According to reports, Beijing has given Washington four red lines on what US is not allowed to talk about during Xi's visit.&nbsp;These include Taiwan, democracy and human rights, China's political system and its development rights.&nbsp;Chinese Ambassador Xie Feng also urged the US not to use national security and forced labour as grounds to constrain China.&nbsp;A separate report in China's People's Daily called Taiwan a key guardrail for ties and warned US to handle the issue with utmost caution.&nbsp;The meeting also comes at a time when world leaders at the UNGA are discussing multilateralism and ongoing challenges which have fractured global ties.&nbsp;Trump has pushed forward the idea of the group of two concept, an exclusive, bilateral, deal-based framework between the two superpowers.&nbsp;China on the other hand, has remained hesitant of such a dynamic.&nbsp;But the US president has often touted his personal relationship with his Chinese counterpart.&nbsp;The question is -- will it help iron out wrinkles in a complex relationship between two economic giants competing with each other?

US and China have been at loggerheads ever since President Donald Trump first announced sweeping retaliatory tariffs on all its trade partners. For Beijing and Washington, trade ties reached a new low when both sides slapped high tariffs against each other's goods.

Leaders of two global superpowers will be meeting for the second time this year. Four months after visiting Beijing, US President Donald Trump will now host his Chinese counterpart on American soil. This is Xi Jinping's first visit to US in more than 10 years, and the world is watching keenly. The decisions that both countries take and the remarks that are made are bound to have a global impact. A host of issues are expected to be on the agenda for the Trump-Xi summit. Trade could potentially be front and centre in the high-stakes meeting. US and China have been at loggerheads ever since Trump first announced sweeping retaliatory tariffs on all its trade partners. For Beijing and Washington, trade ties reached a new low when both sides slapped high tariffs against each other's goods. Last year's trade war saw US tariffs on Chinese goods rise as high as 145%, while China's retaliatory tariffs reached 125%. While both countries have rolled back few of these measures, many of the tariff rates and the major flashpoints still remain unresolved. The last time the two leaders met was in Beijing in May, but that summit fell short of delivering on several key commitments. But it is a race against time, as a November 10 deadline on the current trade agreement looms large on the upcoming talks. Other important aspects might include cooperation on artificial intelligence risks, and a discussion on critical rare earth minerals as well. But it is not just about what is on agenda. It is also about what might not be on the list for bilateral discussions. According to reports, Beijing has given Washington four red lines on what US is not allowed to talk about during Xi's visit. These include Taiwan, democracy and human rights, China's political system and its development rights. Chinese Ambassador Xie Feng also urged the US not to use national security and forced labour as grounds to constrain China. A separate report in China's People's Daily called Taiwan a key guardrail for ties and warned US to handle the issue with utmost caution. The meeting also comes at a time when world leaders at the UNGA are discussing multilateralism and ongoing challenges which have fractured global ties. Trump has pushed forward the idea of the group of two concept, an exclusive, bilateral, deal-based framework between the two superpowers. China on the other hand, has remained hesitant of such a dynamic. But the US president has often touted his personal relationship with his Chinese counterpart. The question is -- will it help iron out wrinkles in a complex relationship between two economic giants competing with each other?

US and China have been at loggerheads ever since President Donald Trump first announced sweeping retaliatory tariffs on all its trade partners. For Beijing and Washington, trade ties reached a new low when both sides slapped high tariffs against each other's goods.

Trump-Xi Summit: Trade, Taiwan and the red lines shaping US-China talks | Race To Power

Whether it is trade, artificial intelligence, or global security, the world's two superpowers have been locked in a turf war.&nbsp;At a time when the world is besieged by conflicts, all eyes are on Chinese President Xi Jinping as he lands in US in a few hours from now for a crucial state visit.&nbsp;In an unprecedented gesture, US President Donald Trump will personally welcome Xi and his wife at the Joint Base Andrews in Maryland.&nbsp;This will be followed by an elaborate welcome ceremony on Thursday, which will feature 479 US military personnel.&nbsp;However, Taiwan remains a sticking point in the US-China bilateral ties.&nbsp;Just ahead of the Trump-Xi summit, Taiwan conducted live-fire exercises featuring a domestically developed eight-wheeled armoured vehicle.&nbsp;According to Taiwan's military, this vehicle combines high mobility and firepower, allowing ground forces to conduct rapid strikes and respond quickly across terrains.&nbsp;It also displayed military equipment used to strengthen the island's defence capabilities, such as HIMARS rocket launchers and air defence systems.&nbsp;This is not all.&nbsp;Last week, combat exercises, involving all three branches of Taiwan's armed forces featuring multiple type of attack drones were held for the first time.&nbsp;Amid this, Beijing issued a firm warning to Washington.&nbsp;The Chinese Envoy to US made it clear that Taiwan and human rights are red lines for China that cannot be crossed.&nbsp;He stressed that America should stop fabricating pretexts such as national security, economic imbalances and forced labour to try and constrain China.&nbsp;The diplomat also added that his country's political model, human rights record and development rights cannot be challenged.&nbsp;Now, tensions increased after US announced weapon sales worth over $11 billion dollars to Taiwan in December last year.&nbsp;However, US is yet to go ahead with this deal, owing to China's consistent objections.&nbsp;In February, Xi warned Trump over the Taiwan arms deal on a phone call, telling him to be "prudent".&nbsp;In May, when Trump went to China, Beijing said, if Taiwan is handled improperly, the two countries will have clashes and even conflicts. This was the exact official wording by the Chinese govt.&nbsp;Now, it's September, it is Xi's turn to visit U.S. - and he is likely to again press Trump to stop deliveries of arms already ordered by Taiwan as well as future arms sales to Taipei.&nbsp;Taiwan though remains optimistic about the arms deal.&nbsp;Xi's America visit also holds significance from the economic perspective with US trade deficit with China standing at more than 91 billion US Dollars.&nbsp;After initially threatening tariffs, Trump announced a trade and economic deal with China in November 2025.&nbsp;According to US, China promised to eliminate export controls on rare earth elements and other critical minerals, and end its retaliation against US semiconductor manufacturers and resume purchase of soybeans.&nbsp;However, uncertainty remains over whether this agreement will be extended over concerns that China is still squeezing flows of critical minerals to US.&nbsp;This is vital for US as they are essential components in production of weapons which have been depleted by the Iran war.&nbsp;According to Chinese customs data, shipments of rare earth magnets to US dropped by 21% in August as compared to the month before.&nbsp;It is worth noting that after holding talks with Xi in Beijing in May, US had announced that China has agreed to address its concerns over rare earths.&nbsp;According to America, China also agreed to purchase 200 American-made Boeing aircraft, and US agricultural products worth 17 billion US Dollars.&nbsp;The recent passage of the Lindsey Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act has also cast a shadow over the trade talks, as it allows Trump to potentially levy tariffs of up to 100% on China for being the top importer of Russian crude oil.&nbsp;AI remains another domain of contention between both sides.&nbsp;While industry leaders have been pushing for a coordinated slowdown of AI development, Trump claimed that China is the only one happy about this.&nbsp;He also announced the formation of an AI Force, and boasted that America is leading China in this domain and would continue to do so...&nbsp;At the same time, America has proposed setting up a US-China AI dialogue.&nbsp;On his part, Xi has called for a consensus-based global AI governance framework.&nbsp;At this juncture though, the Iran war is likely to be one of the key agenda for the talks.&nbsp;Being Iran's largest trading partner, which purchases roughly 90% of its crude oil, China has high stakes in reopening Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;While Trump has increased economic pressure on Iran, China has consistently opposed unilateral sanctions, and urged both sides to return to the negotiating table.&nbsp;With Iran and US at loggerheads, it remains to be seen whether China's intervention can bring an end to this war.&nbsp;With China's growing assertiveness and Trump rolling out the red carpet to Xi, the upcoming two days will be crucial in determining whether the two superpowers can find a middle ground on bilateral issues, as well as matters of global significance...

In an unprecedented gesture, US President Donald Trump will personally welcome Chinese leader Xi Jinping and his wife at the Joint Base Andrews in Maryland. This will be followed by an elaborate welcome ceremony on Thursday, which will feature 479 US military personnel.

Whether it is trade, artificial intelligence, or global security, the world's two superpowers have been locked in a turf war. At a time when the world is besieged by conflicts, all eyes are on Chinese President Xi Jinping as he lands in US in a few hours from now for a crucial state visit. In an unprecedented gesture, US President Donald Trump will personally welcome Xi and his wife at the Joint Base Andrews in Maryland. This will be followed by an elaborate welcome ceremony on Thursday, which will feature 479 US military personnel. However, Taiwan remains a sticking point in the US-China bilateral ties. Just ahead of the Trump-Xi summit, Taiwan conducted live-fire exercises featuring a domestically developed eight-wheeled armoured vehicle. According to Taiwan's military, this vehicle combines high mobility and firepower, allowing ground forces to conduct rapid strikes and respond quickly across terrains. It also displayed military equipment used to strengthen the island's defence capabilities, such as HIMARS rocket launchers and air defence systems. This is not all. Last week, combat exercises, involving all three branches of Taiwan's armed forces featuring multiple type of attack drones were held for the first time. Amid this, Beijing issued a firm warning to Washington. The Chinese Envoy to US made it clear that Taiwan and human rights are red lines for China that cannot be crossed. He stressed that America should stop fabricating pretexts such as national security, economic imbalances and forced labour to try and constrain China. The diplomat also added that his country's political model, human rights record and development rights cannot be challenged. Now, tensions increased after US announced weapon sales worth over $11 billion dollars to Taiwan in December last year. However, US is yet to go ahead with this deal, owing to China's consistent objections. In February, Xi warned Trump over the Taiwan arms deal on a phone call, telling him to be "prudent". In May, when Trump went to China, Beijing said, if Taiwan is handled improperly, the two countries will have clashes and even conflicts. This was the exact official wording by the Chinese govt. Now, it's September, it is Xi's turn to visit U.S. - and he is likely to again press Trump to stop deliveries of arms already ordered by Taiwan as well as future arms sales to Taipei. Taiwan though remains optimistic about the arms deal. Xi's America visit also holds significance from the economic perspective with US trade deficit with China standing at more than 91 billion US Dollars. After initially threatening tariffs, Trump announced a trade and economic deal with China in November 2025. According to US, China promised to eliminate export controls on rare earth elements and other critical minerals, and end its retaliation against US semiconductor manufacturers and resume purchase of soybeans. However, uncertainty remains over whether this agreement will be extended over concerns that China is still squeezing flows of critical minerals to US. This is vital for US as they are essential components in production of weapons which have been depleted by the Iran war. According to Chinese customs data, shipments of rare earth magnets to US dropped by 21% in August as compared to the month before. It is worth noting that after holding talks with Xi in Beijing in May, US had announced that China has agreed to address its concerns over rare earths. According to America, China also agreed to purchase 200 American-made Boeing aircraft, and US agricultural products worth 17 billion US Dollars. The recent passage of the Lindsey Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act has also cast a shadow over the trade talks, as it allows Trump to potentially levy tariffs of up to 100% on China for being the top importer of Russian crude oil. AI remains another domain of contention between both sides. While industry leaders have been pushing for a coordinated slowdown of AI development, Trump claimed that China is the only one happy about this. He also announced the formation of an AI Force, and boasted that America is leading China in this domain and would continue to do so... At the same time, America has proposed setting up a US-China AI dialogue. On his part, Xi has called for a consensus-based global AI governance framework. At this juncture though, the Iran war is likely to be one of the key agenda for the talks. Being Iran's largest trading partner, which purchases roughly 90% of its crude oil, China has high stakes in reopening Strait of Hormuz. While Trump has increased economic pressure on Iran, China has consistently opposed unilateral sanctions, and urged both sides to return to the negotiating table. With Iran and US at loggerheads, it remains to be seen whether China's intervention can bring an end to this war. With China's growing assertiveness and Trump rolling out the red carpet to Xi, the upcoming two days will be crucial in determining whether the two superpowers can find a middle ground on bilateral issues, as well as matters of global significance...

In an unprecedented gesture, US President Donald Trump will personally welcome Chinese leader Xi Jinping and his wife at the Joint Base Andrews in Maryland. This will be followed by an elaborate welcome ceremony on Thursday, which will feature 479 US military personnel.

Xi cautions Trump on arms deal, Taiwan flaunts new weapons | Gravitas

&nbsp;Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to meet US President Donald Trump in Washington this week for a high-stakes three-day summit, as the two countries seek to stabilise ties strained by disputes over trade, Taiwan and the Iran war. Xi is scheduled to arrive in Washington on Wednesday (September 23), marking his first visit to the US capital in more than a decade. The meeting will also be the second interaction between Xi and Trump this year.The summit comes at a crucial time for both countries, with trade tensions, critical mineral supplies and geopolitical disputes expected to dominate discussions.<h2>Trade wars and reciprocal tariffs</h2>One of the key issues on the agenda will be the future of the US-China tariff truce, which is due to expire on November 10. The truce had paused a major trade war between the world's two largest economies, which had raised concerns over global supply chains as Washington and Beijing imposed tit-for-tat tariffs. Although the two sides have avoided imposing new tariffs for nearly a year, they have yet to reach a lasting trade agreement.Chinese Vice-Premier He Lifeng is currently in the US for talks with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, as Washington and Beijing attempt to make progress before the Trump-Xi meeting.<h2>Xi Jinping's Washington visit: Schedule</h2>Wednesday, September 23Xi is scheduled to arrive at Joint Base Andrews, outside Washington, DC. Trump is expected to personally welcome the Chinese president at the military airfield.Thursday, September 24Thursday is expected to be the main day for bilateral diplomatic discussions between Trump and Xi. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump will host a formal welcoming ceremony for Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, across the South Lawn, State Floor and Rose Garden.According to an official White House press briefing, 479 military personnel representing all branches of the US Armed Forces will take part in the ceremony.The programme will include remarks by both leaders, a military salute and demonstrations. It will conclude with a military flyover involving a B-2 Spirit and four F-22 Raptors.A state dinner for Xi and Peng will be held in the East Room of the White House later in the evening.Friday, September 25On Friday morning, Trump and Melania Trump are scheduled to welcome Xi and Peng to the South Portico of the White House for private tea. The two couples will then travel to the National Archives in Washington, DC.The three-day state visit will conclude with Trump and Melania formally bidding farewell to Xi and Peng at the National Archives.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Chinese President Xi Jinping begins a three-day U.S. state visit to meet President Donald Trump in Washington. Discussions aim to stabilise relations, focus on trade tariffs, Taiwan, and geopolitics.

Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to meet US President Donald Trump in Washington this week for a high-stakes three-day summit, as the two countries seek to stabilise ties strained by disputes over trade, Taiwan and the Iran war. Xi is scheduled to arrive in Washington on Wednesday (September 23), marking his first visit to the US capital in more than a decade. The meeting will also be the second interaction between Xi and Trump this year. The summit comes at a crucial time for both countries, with trade tensions, critical mineral supplies and geopolitical disputes expected to dominate discussions. Trade wars and reciprocal tariffs One of the key issues on the agenda will be the future of the US-China tariff truce, which is due to expire on November 10. The truce had paused a major trade war between the world's two largest economies, which had raised concerns over global supply chains as Washington and Beijing imposed tit-for-tat tariffs. Although the two sides have avoided imposing new tariffs for nearly a year, they have yet to reach a lasting trade agreement. Chinese Vice-Premier He Lifeng is currently in the US for talks with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, as Washington and Beijing attempt to make progress before the Trump-Xi meeting. Xi Jinping's Washington visit: Schedule Wednesday, September 23 Xi is scheduled to arrive at Joint Base Andrews, outside Washington, DC. Trump is expected to personally welcome the Chinese president at the military airfield. Thursday, September 24 Thursday is expected to be the main day for bilateral diplomatic discussions between Trump and Xi. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump will host a formal welcoming ceremony for Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, across the South Lawn, State Floor and Rose Garden. According to an official White House press briefing, 479 military personnel representing all branches of the US Armed Forces will take part in the ceremony. The programme will include remarks by both leaders, a military salute and demonstrations. It will conclude with a military flyover involving a B-2 Spirit and four F-22 Raptors. A state dinner for Xi and Peng will be held in the East Room of the White House later in the evening. Friday, September 25 On Friday morning, Trump and Melania Trump are scheduled to welcome Xi and Peng to the South Portico of the White House for private tea. The two couples will then travel to the National Archives in Washington, DC. The three-day state visit will conclude with Trump and Melania formally bidding farewell to Xi and Peng at the National Archives.

Chinese President Xi Jinping begins a three-day U.S. state visit to meet President Donald Trump in Washington. Discussions aim to stabilise relations, focus on trade tariffs, Taiwan, and geopolitics.

Trump-Xi Jinping Meeting 2026: Date, venue, schedule, agenda and key issues - All you need to know

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are set to meet in Washington on Thursday (Sep 24), with trade once again at the centre of a relationship that has swung between tariff escalation and uneasy truces.The two countries have pulled back from the extraordinary tariff battle that pushed US duties on Chinese imports as high as 145 per cent and China's retaliatory tariffs to 125 per cent. But the underlying disputes have not disappeared. Tariffs, rare earths, agricultural purchases and technology controls remain unresolved, while new disagreements over artificial intelligence and sanctions linked to Iran are adding fresh complications.The latest talks are expected to focus on keeping the current trade truce intact. That arrangement is due to expire on November 10 unless Washington and Beijing extend it. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has said maintaining the truce was a focus of recent discussions with Chinese officials.Here are the main economic disputes Trump and Xi will have to navigate.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-russia-sanctions-bill-trump-100-percent-tariff-india-china-1789610901670">Trump gets new power to hit India, China with up to 100% tariffs as US Senate clears Russia sanctions bill</a><h2>Tariffs: the biggest unresolved trade fight</h2>Tariffs remain the most visible sign of the US-China trade conflict. Trump's return to the White House triggered a new round of tariff action in 2025, followed by Chinese retaliation. At the height of that confrontation, Washington's tariffs on Chinese goods reached 145 per cent while Beijing's duties on American imports climbed to 125 per cent. Talks in Geneva and later negotiations in South Korea brought those rates down and created a temporary ceasefire.That truce remains fragile. Different US estimates show that Chinese goods still face substantially higher tariffs than imports from many other major trading partners.The question now is whether Trump and Xi will simply extend the existing arrangement or try to widen it into a more durable trade framework.The US has also been discussing a proposed $30 billion reduction package covering so-called non-critical goods, while Beijing could make additional purchases of American products.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spy-vs-spy-as-xi-meets-trump-a-12-year-history-of-us-china-espionage-accusations-wion-decodes-1790071582437">SPY VS SPY: As Xi meets Trump, a 12-year history of US-China espionage accusations | WION Decodes</a><h2>Rare earths: China's leverage over US industry</h2>Rare earths have emerged as one of Beijing's most powerful economic levers. These minerals and the magnets made from them are essential to products ranging from electronics and electric vehicles to advanced military equipment. China dominates the processing of many critical minerals, a dependency that Washington has increasingly treated as a national security concern. The US Commerce Department has described China's position in critical-mineral processing as a vulnerability for American industry.China tightened export controls on rare earths in 2025 during the trade confrontation. Those restrictions became a major bargaining point in negotiations with Washington.As part of the late-2025 agreement, Beijing suspended the implementation of broader export restrictions and agreed to facilitate exports of rare earths and other critical minerals to US users. Washington, in return, suspended or reduced some of its trade measures.But the issue is not settled. Ahead of the latest summit, US officials have been pushing for more consistent supplies, while Chinese shipments of rare earth magnets to the United States fell in August, according to Chinese customs data cited by the Financial Times.For Washington, the dispute is about reducing dependence on China. For Beijing, rare earths provide leverage in negotiations because alternative supply chains cannot be built quickly.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-may-have-gained-access-to-us-s-classified-f-35-jets-parts-meant-for-repairs-diverted-to-hong-kong-sparking-pentagon-inquiry-1789789538070">China may have gained access to US's classified F-35 jets; parts meant for repairs diverted to Hong Kong, sparking Pentagon inquiry</a><h2>Agriculture: promises versus deliveries</h2>American farm exports have repeatedly featured in Trump-Xi negotiations, particularly soybeans. The two countries have used agricultural purchases as part of broader trade bargains, with China agreeing to buy US farm products in exchange for changes in American tariffs and restrictions.But Washington has continued to question whether Beijing has fully met some commitments from previous agreements. Bessent said this week that “some deliverables” under an earlier Trump-Xi agreement had not been completely fulfilled.Agriculture is therefore both a commercial issue and a political one for the Trump administration, because China is a major market for American farmers.Recent talks have included expectations of further US agricultural purchases. Reuters reported that China was on track to meet a commitment to buy 25 million metric tonnes of US agricultural products annually through 2028, while additional imports were also being discussed.The broader disagreement is over whether purchase commitments can produce a lasting rebalancing of trade or merely form part of temporary summit deals.<h2>Semiconductors and AI: trade is becoming technology policy</h2>The US-China trade dispute is no longer just about goods crossing borders. It increasingly extends to the technology needed to produce them.Washington has restricted China's access to some advanced semiconductors and chipmaking technologies, citing national security concerns. Beijing has responded with its own controls and measures affecting foreign companies and strategic technologies.The US Trade Representative's 2026 report said it had determined that China's targeting of the semiconductor industry for dominance creates economic and national security risks for the United States. Washington has announced a Section 301 tariff measure on Chinese semiconductors, initially set at zero but scheduled to rise from June 2027.Artificial intelligence has now been added to that technology dispute.Bessent said recent US-China discussions included creating a mechanism for the two countries to notify each other about AI incidents with national security implications. The upcoming summit is also expected to address AI safety and the rules surrounding increasingly powerful models.<h2>Fentanyl chemicals and trade restrictions</h2>The flow of chemicals used to manufacture illicit fentanyl has been another source of tension.Washington has accused Chinese suppliers of being a major source of precursor chemicals and has used tariffs and other trade measures to pressure Beijing.China agreed in late 2025 to tighten controls on designated chemicals and take measures to curb the flow of fentanyl precursors. The United States subsequently reduced part of its fentanyl-related tariff burden.But the issue remains active. China has introduced additional export controls on precursor chemicals ahead of Xi's visit, showing that the subject remains part of the wider economic relationship.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-signs-greenland-security-deal-with-denmark-paving-way-for-two-new-us-military-bases-1790128313245">Trump signs Greenland security deal with Denmark, paving way for two new US military bases</a><h2>Iran sanctions add another layer</h2>The Iran conflict is not traditionally a US-China trade dispute, but it is increasingly tied to the economic relationship.The Trump administration's sanctions campaign against Iran has put pressure on Chinese companies and financial institutions that conduct business with Tehran. Washington has so far avoided directly targeting Beijing, but US officials have held discussions with their Chinese counterparts over the issue.Bessent said the subject was raised during recent talks with Chinese officials and that Chinese financial authorities had been engaged in discussions.That creates another potential point of friction just as Washington is trying to preserve its trade truce with Beijing.<h2>What is at stake at the Trump-Xi meeting?</h2>The US and China remain deeply economically intertwined despite the trade war. US goods trade with China totalled $414.6 billion in 2025, while services trade added another $80 billion, according to US government figures. The US goods deficit with China was $202.7 billion that year.The immediate issue is whether the two leaders can keep the current truce from unravelling before its November 10 expiry. Beyond that lies a much harder question: whether the world's two largest economies can manage their competition without repeatedly returning to tariffs, export controls and retaliatory measures.

Donald Trump and Xi Jinping meet in Washington on Thursday with a fragile US-China trade truce at stake. Tariffs remain unresolved, but rare earths, farm purchases, semiconductors, AI and Iran sanctions could make the talks far more complicated.

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are set to meet in Washington on Thursday (Sep 24), with trade once again at the centre of a relationship that has swung between tariff escalation and uneasy truces. The two countries have pulled back from the extraordinary tariff battle that pushed US duties on Chinese imports as high as 145 per cent and China's retaliatory tariffs to 125 per cent. But the underlying disputes have not disappeared. Tariffs, rare earths, agricultural purchases and technology controls remain unresolved, while new disagreements over artificial intelligence and sanctions linked to Iran are adding fresh complications. The latest talks are expected to focus on keeping the current trade truce intact. That arrangement is due to expire on November 10 unless Washington and Beijing extend it. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has said maintaining the truce was a focus of recent discussions with Chinese officials. Here are the main economic disputes Trump and Xi will have to navigate. Also read | Trump gets new power to hit India, China with up to 100% tariffs as US Senate clears Russia sanctions bill Tariffs: the biggest unresolved trade fight Tariffs remain the most visible sign of the US-China trade conflict. Trump's return to the White House triggered a new round of tariff action in 2025, followed by Chinese retaliation. At the height of that confrontation, Washington's tariffs on Chinese goods reached 145 per cent while Beijing's duties on American imports climbed to 125 per cent. Talks in Geneva and later negotiations in South Korea brought those rates down and created a temporary ceasefire. That truce remains fragile. Different US estimates show that Chinese goods still face substantially higher tariffs than imports from many other major trading partners. The question now is whether Trump and Xi will simply extend the existing arrangement or try to widen it into a more durable trade framework. The US has also been discussing a proposed $30 billion reduction package covering so-called non-critical goods, while Beijing could make additional purchases of American products. Also read | SPY VS SPY: As Xi meets Trump, a 12-year history of US-China espionage accusations | WION Decodes Rare earths: China's leverage over US industry Rare earths have emerged as one of Beijing's most powerful economic levers. These minerals and the magnets made from them are essential to products ranging from electronics and electric vehicles to advanced military equipment. China dominates the processing of many critical minerals, a dependency that Washington has increasingly treated as a national security concern. The US Commerce Department has described China's position in critical-mineral processing as a vulnerability for American industry. China tightened export controls on rare earths in 2025 during the trade confrontation. Those restrictions became a major bargaining point in negotiations with Washington. As part of the late-2025 agreement, Beijing suspended the implementation of broader export restrictions and agreed to facilitate exports of rare earths and other critical minerals to US users. Washington, in return, suspended or reduced some of its trade measures. But the issue is not settled. Ahead of the latest summit, US officials have been pushing for more consistent supplies, while Chinese shipments of rare earth magnets to the United States fell in August, according to Chinese customs data cited by the Financial Times. For Washington, the dispute is about reducing dependence on China. For Beijing, rare earths provide leverage in negotiations because alternative supply chains cannot be built quickly. Also read | China may have gained access to US's classified F-35 jets; parts meant for repairs diverted to Hong Kong, sparking Pentagon inquiry Agriculture: promises versus deliveries American farm exports have repeatedly featured in Trump-Xi negotiations, particularly soybeans. The two countries have used agricultural purchases as part of broader trade bargains, with China agreeing to buy US farm products in exchange for changes in American tariffs and restrictions. But Washington has continued to question whether Beijing has fully met some commitments from previous agreements. Bessent said this week that “some deliverables” under an earlier Trump-Xi agreement had not been completely fulfilled. Agriculture is therefore both a commercial issue and a political one for the Trump administration, because China is a major market for American farmers. Recent talks have included expectations of further US agricultural purchases. Reuters reported that China was on track to meet a commitment to buy 25 million metric tonnes of US agricultural products annually through 2028, while additional imports were also being discussed. The broader disagreement is over whether purchase commitments can produce a lasting rebalancing of trade or merely form part of temporary summit deals. Semiconductors and AI: trade is becoming technology policy The US-China trade dispute is no longer just about goods crossing borders. It increasingly extends to the technology needed to produce them. Washington has restricted China's access to some advanced semiconductors and chipmaking technologies, citing national security concerns. Beijing has responded with its own controls and measures affecting foreign companies and strategic technologies. The US Trade Representative's 2026 report said it had determined that China's targeting of the semiconductor industry for dominance creates economic and national security risks for the United States. Washington has announced a Section 301 tariff measure on Chinese semiconductors, initially set at zero but scheduled to rise from June 2027. Artificial intelligence has now been added to that technology dispute. Bessent said recent US-China discussions included creating a mechanism for the two countries to notify each other about AI incidents with national security implications. The upcoming summit is also expected to address AI safety and the rules surrounding increasingly powerful models. Fentanyl chemicals and trade restrictions The flow of chemicals used to manufacture illicit fentanyl has been another source of tension. Washington has accused Chinese suppliers of being a major source of precursor chemicals and has used tariffs and other trade measures to pressure Beijing. China agreed in late 2025 to tighten controls on designated chemicals and take measures to curb the flow of fentanyl precursors. The United States subsequently reduced part of its fentanyl-related tariff burden. But the issue remains active. China has introduced additional export controls on precursor chemicals ahead of Xi's visit, showing that the subject remains part of the wider economic relationship. Also read | Trump signs Greenland security deal with Denmark, paving way for two new US military bases Iran sanctions add another layer The Iran conflict is not traditionally a US-China trade dispute, but it is increasingly tied to the economic relationship. The Trump administration's sanctions campaign against Iran has put pressure on Chinese companies and financial institutions that conduct business with Tehran. Washington has so far avoided directly targeting Beijing, but US officials have held discussions with their Chinese counterparts over the issue. Bessent said the subject was raised during recent talks with Chinese officials and that Chinese financial authorities had been engaged in discussions. That creates another potential point of friction just as Washington is trying to preserve its trade truce with Beijing. What is at stake at the Trump-Xi meeting? The US and China remain deeply economically intertwined despite the trade war. US goods trade with China totalled $414.6 billion in 2025, while services trade added another $80 billion, according to US government figures. The US goods deficit with China was $202.7 billion that year. The immediate issue is whether the two leaders can keep the current truce from unravelling before its November 10 expiry. Beyond that lies a much harder question: whether the world's two largest economies can manage their competition without repeatedly returning to tariffs, export controls and retaliatory measures.

Donald Trump and Xi Jinping meet in Washington on Thursday with a fragile US-China trade truce at stake. Tariffs remain unresolved, but rare earths, farm purchases, semiconductors, AI and Iran sanctions could make the talks far more complicated.

Trump-Xi Jinping Meeting 2026: What are the biggest trade disputes between the US and China?

When Donald Trump and Xi Jinping meet in Washington, the conversation will go far beyond tariffs and trade. At the centre of the relationship is a much larger contest: who will lead the next generation of artificial intelligence, semiconductors and advanced technology? AI has become a strategic issue for both Washington and Beijing because its applications extend from consumer technology to defence, cybersecurity, finance and critical infrastructure. Reuters reported ahead of the meeting that AI competition is expected to be a central issue in the talks.<h2>AI is no longer just a tech issue</h2>For the US and China, artificial intelligence has increasingly become connected to economic and national security interests. Washington wants to preserve its advantage in advanced AI systems and the computing infrastructure required to train them. Beijing, meanwhile, is pursuing greater technological self-sufficiency and trying to reduce its dependence on American technology. The two sides are therefore competing while remaining deeply interconnected.<h2>The chip battle</h2>Behind the AI race sits an even more fundamental contest: semiconductors. The most advanced AI models require enormous computing power, and high-end chips are critical to building that infrastructure. The United States has imposed restrictions on China's access to certain advanced semiconductor technologies since 2022. Those controls have become one of the biggest sources of tension in the technology relationship.&nbsp;But the policy is evolving. The Trump administration has allowed limited sales of Nvidia's H200 chips to China, a move that has generated debate in Washington over how tightly the US should control advanced computing technology exports. For Beijing, access to advanced chips could accelerate AI development. For Washington, controlling the most powerful computing technology is part of its broader effort to maintain a technological edge. That makes chips one of the most sensitive subjects in the Trump-Xi relationship.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-s-iran-problem-why-trump-s-sanctions-strategy-could-put-beijing-in-a-bind-1790151990840">China’s Iran problem: Why Trump’s sanctions strategy could put Beijing in a bind</a><h2>Can the US and China cooperate on AI?</h2>Interestingly, the technology competition is happening alongside discussions about AI safety. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng discussed a possible bilateral mechanism for notifying each other about major AI-related incidents ahead of the summit. The proposed mechanism would focus on issues including national security, transparency and significant AI incidents.&nbsp;The idea reflects an unusual feature of the AI race: Washington and Beijing may be competitors, but both have an interest in preventing AI-related incidents from escalating into a wider crisis. A proposal for an AI-specific communication channel has also emerged, with the concept compared with Cold War-era mechanisms designed to reduce the risk of escalation.<h2>What is at stake for Trump and Xi?</h2>The meeting therefore brings together several overlapping disputes:<ul><li>AI leadership: Which country can build and deploy frontier AI fastest?</li><li>Advanced chips: How much access should Chinese companies have to leading-edge US semiconductor technology?</li><li>Export controls: Can Washington restrict critical technology without accelerating China's push for self-sufficiency?</li><li>AI safety: Can the two countries establish mechanisms to prevent dangerous AI incidents?</li><li>Technology ecosystems: Will the US and China continue building separate supply chains and standards?</li><li>Economic ties: Can technology restrictions coexist with efforts to stabilise broader trade relations?</li></ul>

Trump and Xi meet in Washington as AI, advanced chips, export controls and technology dominance take centre stage in US-China relations

When Donald Trump and Xi Jinping meet in Washington, the conversation will go far beyond tariffs and trade. At the centre of the relationship is a much larger contest: who will lead the next generation of artificial intelligence, semiconductors and advanced technology? AI has become a strategic issue for both Washington and Beijing because its applications extend from consumer technology to defence, cybersecurity, finance and critical infrastructure. Reuters reported ahead of the meeting that AI competition is expected to be a central issue in the talks. AI is no longer just a tech issue For the US and China, artificial intelligence has increasingly become connected to economic and national security interests. Washington wants to preserve its advantage in advanced AI systems and the computing infrastructure required to train them. Beijing, meanwhile, is pursuing greater technological self-sufficiency and trying to reduce its dependence on American technology. The two sides are therefore competing while remaining deeply interconnected. The chip battle Behind the AI race sits an even more fundamental contest: semiconductors. The most advanced AI models require enormous computing power, and high-end chips are critical to building that infrastructure. The United States has imposed restrictions on China's access to certain advanced semiconductor technologies since 2022. Those controls have become one of the biggest sources of tension in the technology relationship. But the policy is evolving. The Trump administration has allowed limited sales of Nvidia's H200 chips to China, a move that has generated debate in Washington over how tightly the US should control advanced computing technology exports. For Beijing, access to advanced chips could accelerate AI development. For Washington, controlling the most powerful computing technology is part of its broader effort to maintain a technological edge. That makes chips one of the most sensitive subjects in the Trump-Xi relationship. Also Read: China’s Iran problem: Why Trump’s sanctions strategy could put Beijing in a bind Can the US and China cooperate on AI? Interestingly, the technology competition is happening alongside discussions about AI safety. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng discussed a possible bilateral mechanism for notifying each other about major AI-related incidents ahead of the summit. The proposed mechanism would focus on issues including national security, transparency and significant AI incidents. The idea reflects an unusual feature of the AI race: Washington and Beijing may be competitors, but both have an interest in preventing AI-related incidents from escalating into a wider crisis. A proposal for an AI-specific communication channel has also emerged, with the concept compared with Cold War-era mechanisms designed to reduce the risk of escalation. What is at stake for Trump and Xi? The meeting therefore brings together several overlapping disputes: AI leadership: Which country can build and deploy frontier AI fastest? Advanced chips: How much access should Chinese companies have to leading-edge US semiconductor technology? Export controls: Can Washington restrict critical technology without accelerating China's push for self-sufficiency? AI safety: Can the two countries establish mechanisms to prevent dangerous AI incidents? Technology ecosystems: Will the US and China continue building separate supply chains and standards? Economic ties: Can technology restrictions coexist with efforts to stabilise broader trade relations?

Trump and Xi's 2026 meeting comes as Washington and Beijing compete over AI, advanced chips, technology controls and the future of global technology

Trump-Xi meeting 2026: From AI to chips, what is really at stake in the US-China tech race?

The Trump administration’s campaign to squeeze Iran’s economy is running into a major complication: China. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has expanded Washington’s use of economic pressure against Tehran, including secondary sanctions aimed at companies, banks, traders and other entities helping Iran maintain its economic lifelines. The strategy is designed to make doing business with Iran increasingly costly even for entities that are outside the United States.&nbsp;But there is one country Washington cannot easily ignore, China. China is Iran’s largest trading partner and by far its biggest buyer of crude. The US-China Economic and Security Review Commission says Chinese purchases accounted for roughly 90 per cent of Iran’s exported oil, while China imported nearly 1.4 million barrels per day of Iranian oil in 2025. That makes Beijing crucial to Tehran’s ability to keep earning revenue despite years of US sanctions.<h2>Why China's role matters</h2>Iran has spent years developing ways to keep its oil flowing despite sanctions. Chinese buyers, trading networks, financial intermediaries and shipping arrangements have become an important part of that system. A US-China Economic and Security Review Commission timeline published this month described China as Iran’s ‘most important economic lifeline’, particularly through oil purchases. It also highlighted Chinese involvement in trade and technology networks that have helped Tehran mitigate the impact of sanctions.&nbsp;For Beijing, however, the relationship with Tehran is not simply about supporting Iran. China gets access to discounted Iranian crude, while Iran gets a major customer willing to continue buying despite US restrictions. The relationship therefore serves economic interests on both sides. But Beijing also has much larger commercial interests with other Middle Eastern economies, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. The USCC estimates that China’s two-way trade with both Saudi Arabia and the UAE was significantly larger than its trade with Iran in 2025.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-and-human-rights-are-red-lines-china-warns-us-ahead-of-xi-trump-visit-1790136901948">'Taiwan and human rights are red lines': China warns US ahead of Xi-Trump visit</a><h2>What are secondary sanctions?</h2>Primary US sanctions generally restrict American individuals and companies from doing business with a sanctioned country or entity. Secondary sanctions go further. They can threaten non-US companies or financial institutions with losing access to the US financial system if they continue certain transactions with sanctioned entities. That creates a difficult choice for international businesses: maintain commercial ties with Iran or protect access to the US financial system. Bessent’s expanded sanctions campaign has already targeted entities in China and Hong Kong linked to Iran’s oil, missile and nuclear-related activities.<h2>Why China is different</h2>Targeting smaller companies or financial networks is one thing. Applying maximum pressure to China is much more complicated. China is the world's second-largest economy and one of Washington's most important economic counterparts. At the same time, Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are preparing for talks in Washington covering trade, technology, AI and other strategic issues.&nbsp;That creates a balancing act for Washington. The US wants to reduce Iran's ability to finance its economy and war effort. But aggressively targeting major Chinese companies or banks could trigger another confrontation with Beijing just as Washington is trying to stabilise US-China relations. China has already rejected unilateral US sanctions on Iran and defended its trade relationship with Tehran.<h2>What happens next?</h2>The central question is not whether Washington can sanction Chinese entities. It can. The bigger question is how far the Trump administration is willing to go against Chinese companies that continue buying or facilitating Iranian oil. If Washington increases pressure, Beijing could respond politically or economically. If enforcement remains limited, Iran could continue relying heavily on Chinese demand for its oil. That leaves China at the centre of Trump's Iran strategy, not necessarily because Beijing is the intended target, but because Iran's economic lifeline increasingly runs through a country Washington also needs to negotiate with.

China is Iran’s biggest trading partner and oil buyer. Here’s why Trump’s secondary sanctions plan could put Beijing in a difficult position

The Trump administration’s campaign to squeeze Iran’s economy is running into a major complication: China. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has expanded Washington’s use of economic pressure against Tehran, including secondary sanctions aimed at companies, banks, traders and other entities helping Iran maintain its economic lifelines. The strategy is designed to make doing business with Iran increasingly costly even for entities that are outside the United States. But there is one country Washington cannot easily ignore, China. China is Iran’s largest trading partner and by far its biggest buyer of crude. The US-China Economic and Security Review Commission says Chinese purchases accounted for roughly 90 per cent of Iran’s exported oil, while China imported nearly 1.4 million barrels per day of Iranian oil in 2025. That makes Beijing crucial to Tehran’s ability to keep earning revenue despite years of US sanctions. Why China's role matters Iran has spent years developing ways to keep its oil flowing despite sanctions. Chinese buyers, trading networks, financial intermediaries and shipping arrangements have become an important part of that system. A US-China Economic and Security Review Commission timeline published this month described China as Iran’s ‘most important economic lifeline’, particularly through oil purchases. It also highlighted Chinese involvement in trade and technology networks that have helped Tehran mitigate the impact of sanctions. For Beijing, however, the relationship with Tehran is not simply about supporting Iran. China gets access to discounted Iranian crude, while Iran gets a major customer willing to continue buying despite US restrictions. The relationship therefore serves economic interests on both sides. But Beijing also has much larger commercial interests with other Middle Eastern economies, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. The USCC estimates that China’s two-way trade with both Saudi Arabia and the UAE was significantly larger than its trade with Iran in 2025. Also Read: 'Taiwan and human rights are red lines': China warns US ahead of Xi-Trump visit What are secondary sanctions? Primary US sanctions generally restrict American individuals and companies from doing business with a sanctioned country or entity. Secondary sanctions go further. They can threaten non-US companies or financial institutions with losing access to the US financial system if they continue certain transactions with sanctioned entities. That creates a difficult choice for international businesses: maintain commercial ties with Iran or protect access to the US financial system. Bessent’s expanded sanctions campaign has already targeted entities in China and Hong Kong linked to Iran’s oil, missile and nuclear-related activities. Why China is different Targeting smaller companies or financial networks is one thing. Applying maximum pressure to China is much more complicated. China is the world's second-largest economy and one of Washington's most important economic counterparts. At the same time, Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are preparing for talks in Washington covering trade, technology, AI and other strategic issues. That creates a balancing act for Washington. The US wants to reduce Iran's ability to finance its economy and war effort. But aggressively targeting major Chinese companies or banks could trigger another confrontation with Beijing just as Washington is trying to stabilise US-China relations. China has already rejected unilateral US sanctions on Iran and defended its trade relationship with Tehran. What happens next? The central question is not whether Washington can sanction Chinese entities. It can. The bigger question is how far the Trump administration is willing to go against Chinese companies that continue buying or facilitating Iranian oil. If Washington increases pressure, Beijing could respond politically or economically. If enforcement remains limited, Iran could continue relying heavily on Chinese demand for its oil. That leaves China at the centre of Trump's Iran strategy, not necessarily because Beijing is the intended target, but because Iran's economic lifeline increasingly runs through a country Washington also needs to negotiate with.

China’s deep trade and oil ties with Iran could put Beijing at the centre of Donald Trump’s new secondary sanctions campaign against Tehran

China’s Iran problem: Why Trump’s sanctions strategy could put Beijing in a bind

Ahead of the much anticipated meeting between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, Beijing has warned America over its involvement in Taiwan. China's Ambassador Xie Feng ​said that Taiwan and human rights are "red lines" for China that cannot be crossed. In an article published in Communist Party's official People's Daily on the day Xi is due to leave, Ambassador Xie Feng ​said that managing differences hinges on good faith, and the US should stop "fabricating pretexts" such as national security, economic imbalances and forced labour to try to ​and constrain China.&nbsp;"China's ⁠sovereignty, security, and development interests cannot be violated, and four red lines — the Taiwan question, democracy and human rights, development paths and systems, and development rights — cannot ​be challenged," Xie said. "China is committed to pursuing peaceful development and hopes the US will move toward this as well." When China and the US cooperate, both benefit, but when they confront each other, both suffer, he added. A separate commentary ​in the People's Daily also said that Washington's "erroneous" perceptions of China and its inability to let go of the notion of strategic competition ​are the basic ⁠causes of their difficult relationship.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-xi-meeting-2026-6-areas-that-will-be-closely-watched-at-the-bilateral-1790062701310">Trump Xi Meeting 2026: 6 areas that will be closely watched at the bilateral</a>&nbsp;"In recent years, the tortuous path China-US relations have travelled clearly shows the US's erroneous perceptions of China and its unwillingness to let go of the notion of 'strategic competition' are the fundamental cause of recurring difficulties," said the commentary, without offering details.Both sides should cherish the favourable momentum that has come at "great cost, maintain ⁠the right ​direction, and eliminate interference", said the article, published under the pen name "Zhong Sheng", meaning "Voice of China" and ​used to give views on foreign policy. "The US side, in particular, needs to maintain continuity and stability in its policies, honour its commitments, and inject certainty into bilateral relations," it added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-xi-state-dinner-2026-who-is-invited-full-guest-list-of-tech-ceos-business-leaders-and-officials-1790086637540">Trump-Xi state dinner 2026: Who is invited? Full guest list</a><h2>Taiwan issue between US and China</h2>Taiwan is a bone of contention but Trump did not discuss it suring Beijing meet in May. However, the Chinese side did mention with Xi cautioning US arms sales to Taiwan. While the US, like most countries, has no formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan, it is its most important international backer and arms supplier. Taiwan is democratically governed island claimed by China. On Monday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with his counterparts from Japan and South Korea and reiterated the US commitment ​to the defense of those key Asian allies, and the three nations ​expressed support for Taiwan. In a letter to Trump on Friday, ⁠John Moolenaar, Republican chairman of the House Select Committee on China, wrote in a reference to Taiwan and US allies in Asia that Chinese objections to US arms sales and security cooperation should be "rejected out of hand."

Ahead of Xi Jinping’s summit with Donald Trump in Washington, China’s ambassador to the US warned that Taiwan, human rights and other issues are “red lines” that cannot be challenged. Beijing urged Washington to manage differences with “good faith” as tensions continue over trade and Taiwan.

Ahead of the much anticipated meeting between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, Beijing has warned America over its involvement in Taiwan. China's Ambassador Xie Feng said that Taiwan and human rights are "red lines" for China that cannot be crossed. In an article published in Communist Party's official People's Daily on the day Xi is due to leave, Ambassador Xie Feng said that managing differences hinges on good faith, and the US should stop "fabricating pretexts" such as national security, economic imbalances and forced labour to try to and constrain China. "China's ⁠sovereignty, security, and development interests cannot be violated, and four red lines — the Taiwan question, democracy and human rights, development paths and systems, and development rights — cannot be challenged," Xie said. "China is committed to pursuing peaceful development and hopes the US will move toward this as well." When China and the US cooperate, both benefit, but when they confront each other, both suffer, he added. A separate commentary in the People's Daily also said that Washington's "erroneous" perceptions of China and its inability to let go of the notion of strategic competition are the basic ⁠causes of their difficult relationship. Also Read: Trump Xi Meeting 2026: 6 areas that will be closely watched at the bilateral "In recent years, the tortuous path China-US relations have travelled clearly shows the US's erroneous perceptions of China and its unwillingness to let go of the notion of 'strategic competition' are the fundamental cause of recurring difficulties," said the commentary, without offering details. Both sides should cherish the favourable momentum that has come at "great cost, maintain ⁠the right direction, and eliminate interference", said the article, published under the pen name "Zhong Sheng", meaning "Voice of China" and used to give views on foreign policy. "The US side, in particular, needs to maintain continuity and stability in its policies, honour its commitments, and inject certainty into bilateral relations," it added. Also Read: Trump-Xi state dinner 2026: Who is invited? Full guest list Taiwan issue between US and China Taiwan is a bone of contention but Trump did not discuss it suring Beijing meet in May. However, the Chinese side did mention with Xi cautioning US arms sales to Taiwan. While the US, like most countries, has no formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan, it is its most important international backer and arms supplier. Taiwan is democratically governed island claimed by China. On Monday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with his counterparts from Japan and South Korea and reiterated the US commitment to the defense of those key Asian allies, and the three nations expressed support for Taiwan. In a letter to Trump on Friday, ⁠John Moolenaar, Republican chairman of the House Select Committee on China, wrote in a reference to Taiwan and US allies in Asia that Chinese objections to US arms sales and security cooperation should be "rejected out of hand."

Ahead of Xi Jinping’s summit with Donald Trump in Washington, China’s ambassador to the US warned that Taiwan, human rights and other issues are “red lines” that cannot be challenged. Beijing urged Washington to manage differences with “good faith” as tensions continue over trade and Taiwan.

'Taiwan and human rights are red lines': China warns US ahead of Xi-Trump visit

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping will meet in Washington on Wednesday as China's premier will land at Joint Base Andrews for his first state visit to Washington in eleven years. In an unprecedented gesture, Trump will be waiting receive him on the tarmac. Later, a B-2 Spirit and four F-22 Raptors will overfly the ceremony, and US First Lady Melania Trump will host Peng Liyuan, the first lady of China, for their own meeting. Just four months ago, the two leaders met in Beijing. Both the leaders seek stability in a relationship under pressure over issues ranging from trade to Taiwan and Iran, as well as global worries about artificial intelligence.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-xi-meeting-2026-6-areas-that-will-be-closely-watched-at-the-bilateral-1790062701310">Trump Xi Meeting 2026: 6 areas that will be closely watched at the bilateral</a><h2>What will Trump and Xi discuss?</h2>The meeting comes at the backdrop of intense trade war that was started by Trump with an aim to fix American economy. As both the leaders meet, markets will watch closely. It must be noted that the tariff truce between China and the US announced after a Trump-Xi summit in South Korea last October and set to expire on November 10. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer has already saidthat both the countries will make "some announcements on agriculture and non-tariff barriers." &nbsp;<h2>Trade war</h2>The White House said after the May summit that China had committed to purchasing at least $17 billion per year of US agricultural products ​in 2026, 2027 and 2028. Trump ​is eyeing to confirm the purchase of Boeing aircraft and agricultural products. However, Boeing CEO ⁠Kelly Ortberg last week played down some expectations among industry analysts that China could make another Boeing order around the Trump-Xi talks. "I think there’ll be an increment of orders going forward," he told an investor conference. "They’re going to be announced by the airlines at their pace, however ​they want to announce those."&nbsp;<h2>Artificial intelligence</h2>With renewed calls for artificial intelligence slowdown, this can be a potential area for discussion. Both the US and China have brushed aside calls for slowdown. Bessent said after talks with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng at the weekend that the ​two sides discussed setting up a new US-China AI dialogue. This would include a notification system for common goals and common threats that would cover AI-related incidents that rise to a national security level. Dario Amodei, chief executive of US AI firm Anthropic, warned this month that Chinese dominance in AI could pose security risks to the United States. Chinese state media dismissed this warning ​as coming from a "Cold War playbook<h2>Taiwan</h2>Taiwan is a bone of contention but Trump did not discuss it suring Beijing meet in May. However, the Chinese side did mention with Xi cautioning US arms sales to Taiwan. While the US, like most countries, has no formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan, it is its most important international backer and arms supplier. Taiwan is democratically governed island claimed by China. On Monday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with his counterparts from Japan and South Korea and reiterated the US commitment ​to the defense of those key Asian allies, and the three nations ​expressed support for Taiwan. In a letter to Trump on Friday, ⁠John Moolenaar, Republican chairman of the House Select Committee on China, wrote in a reference to Taiwan and US allies in Asia that Chinese objections to US arms sales and security cooperation should be "rejected out of hand."<h2>Iran</h2>China maintains close ties to Tehran and is world's biggest buyer of Iranian oil exports. With this in mind, US war in Iran has harmed China massively. Washington sees Xi as someone who will be able to exert pressure on Tehran to come to the negotiation table. &nbsp;Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has said Trump and Xi would continue discussions on China's financial ties to Tehran during the summit. However, Bessent did not impose penalties ​on Chinese banks when he unveiled an "economic ⁠onslaught" against Iran last month and warned countries to cut business ties with the country. Last week, Trump brushed aside a report that Iran acquired satellite images of a base in Jordan from Chinese entities before an attack that killed three US troops there in July. He said both the countries spy on each other.&nbsp;<h2>Rare earth</h2>Rare earth will be an important area of discussion between the two countries, with Beijing pressing the US to delay a rule that would bar thousands of Chinese firms from receiving advanced US technology, and Washington wanting Beijing to ease shipments of rare earths and critical minerals vital for high-tech applications spanning automobile to aerospace manufacturing, as well as defense. &nbsp;China controls up to 70 per cent of global rare-earth mining, 85 per cent of refining capacity, and about 90 per cent of rare-earth metal alloy and magnet production, according to consultancy AlixPartners.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-is-going-to-be-in-america-but-not-at-the-un-why-china-s-president-chose-trump-over-the-general-assembly-1790065329581">Xi is going to be in America, but not at the UN: Why</a><h2>What is the exact schedule after Xi's arrival in Washington?</h2>On September 24, Trump and Jinping will begin with a State Arrival Ceremony at the White House, featuring 479 military personnel from all branches, a full honour cordon, national anthems, remarks by both leaders, a military review and demonstrations, followed by a flyover by a B-2 Spirit and four F-22 Raptors. After the ceremony, Trump and Xi will hold a bilateral meeting, while Melania Trump and Peng Liyuan will visit the Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art. In the evening, Trump and Melania will welcome Xi and Peng at the White House for a State Dinner, where both leaders are expected to deliver remarks. On Friday, September 25, the two couples will have tea in the Red Room before visiting the National Archives to view records significant to US-China relations, where the Trumps will bid farewell to the Chinese leaders.

Donald Trump and Xi Jinping will meet in Washington on September 24 as the US-China relationship faces tensions over trade, Taiwan, Iran, AI and rare earths. The summit will also feature a White House state ceremony and dinner, with both sides seeking to manage disputes and preserve dialogue.

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping will meet in Washington on Wednesday as China's premier will land at Joint Base Andrews for his first state visit to Washington in eleven years. In an unprecedented gesture, Trump will be waiting receive him on the tarmac. Later, a B-2 Spirit and four F-22 Raptors will overfly the ceremony, and US First Lady Melania Trump will host Peng Liyuan, the first lady of China, for their own meeting. Just four months ago, the two leaders met in Beijing. Both the leaders seek stability in a relationship under pressure over issues ranging from trade to Taiwan and Iran, as well as global worries about artificial intelligence. Also Read: Trump Xi Meeting 2026: 6 areas that will be closely watched at the bilateral What will Trump and Xi discuss? The meeting comes at the backdrop of intense trade war that was started by Trump with an aim to fix American economy. As both the leaders meet, markets will watch closely. It must be noted that the tariff truce between China and the US announced after a Trump-Xi summit in South Korea last October and set to expire on November 10. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer has already saidthat both the countries will make "some announcements on agriculture and non-tariff barriers." Trade war The White House said after the May summit that China had committed to purchasing at least $17 billion per year of US agricultural products in 2026, 2027 and 2028. Trump is eyeing to confirm the purchase of Boeing aircraft and agricultural products. However, Boeing CEO ⁠Kelly Ortberg last week played down some expectations among industry analysts that China could make another Boeing order around the Trump-Xi talks. "I think there’ll be an increment of orders going forward," he told an investor conference. "They’re going to be announced by the airlines at their pace, however they want to announce those." Artificial intelligence With renewed calls for artificial intelligence slowdown, this can be a potential area for discussion. Both the US and China have brushed aside calls for slowdown. Bessent said after talks with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng at the weekend that the two sides discussed setting up a new US-China AI dialogue. This would include a notification system for common goals and common threats that would cover AI-related incidents that rise to a national security level. Dario Amodei, chief executive of US AI firm Anthropic, warned this month that Chinese dominance in AI could pose security risks to the United States. Chinese state media dismissed this warning as coming from a "Cold War playbook Taiwan Taiwan is a bone of contention but Trump did not discuss it suring Beijing meet in May. However, the Chinese side did mention with Xi cautioning US arms sales to Taiwan. While the US, like most countries, has no formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan, it is its most important international backer and arms supplier. Taiwan is democratically governed island claimed by China. On Monday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with his counterparts from Japan and South Korea and reiterated the US commitment to the defense of those key Asian allies, and the three nations expressed support for Taiwan. In a letter to Trump on Friday, ⁠John Moolenaar, Republican chairman of the House Select Committee on China, wrote in a reference to Taiwan and US allies in Asia that Chinese objections to US arms sales and security cooperation should be "rejected out of hand." Iran China maintains close ties to Tehran and is world's biggest buyer of Iranian oil exports. With this in mind, US war in Iran has harmed China massively. Washington sees Xi as someone who will be able to exert pressure on Tehran to come to the negotiation table. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has said Trump and Xi would continue discussions on China's financial ties to Tehran during the summit. However, Bessent did not impose penalties on Chinese banks when he unveiled an "economic ⁠onslaught" against Iran last month and warned countries to cut business ties with the country. Last week, Trump brushed aside a report that Iran acquired satellite images of a base in Jordan from Chinese entities before an attack that killed three US troops there in July. He said both the countries spy on each other. Rare earth Rare earth will be an important area of discussion between the two countries, with Beijing pressing the US to delay a rule that would bar thousands of Chinese firms from receiving advanced US technology, and Washington wanting Beijing to ease shipments of rare earths and critical minerals vital for high-tech applications spanning automobile to aerospace manufacturing, as well as defense. China controls up to 70 per cent of global rare-earth mining, 85 per cent of refining capacity, and about 90 per cent of rare-earth metal alloy and magnet production, according to consultancy AlixPartners. Also Read: Xi is going to be in America, but not at the UN: Why What is the exact schedule after Xi's arrival in Washington? On September 24, Trump and Jinping will begin with a State Arrival Ceremony at the White House, featuring 479 military personnel from all branches, a full honour cordon, national anthems, remarks by both leaders, a military review and demonstrations, followed by a flyover by a B-2 Spirit and four F-22 Raptors. After the ceremony, Trump and Xi will hold a bilateral meeting, while Melania Trump and Peng Liyuan will visit the Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art. In the evening, Trump and Melania will welcome Xi and Peng at the White House for a State Dinner, where both leaders are expected to deliver remarks. On Friday, September 25, the two couples will have tea in the Red Room before visiting the National Archives to view records significant to US-China relations, where the Trumps will bid farewell to the Chinese leaders.

Donald Trump and Xi Jinping will meet in Washington on September 24 as the US-China relationship faces tensions over trade, Taiwan, Iran, AI and rare earths. The summit will also feature a White House state ceremony and dinner, with both sides seeking to manage disputes and preserve dialogue.

Trump-Xi summit: From trade to Taiwan, what will the US and Chinese presidents discuss in Washington?