Trump meets Xi in Beijing as leaders open high-stakes talks amid trade, Iran tensions
Trump arrived for an elaborate welcome ceremony before being received by Xi at the Great Hall, a key political and ceremonial venue overlooking Tiananmen Square. The two leaders shook hands, made brief statements and posed for photos, while Trump was seen caressing Xi’s arm.
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The meeting was marked by ceremonial displays, including a red carpet welcome and a student performance in which children waved flowers and US-China flags and chanted “Welcome to China” in Mandarin.
The summit took place at a time when global geopolitics were tense; Discussions are expected to cover trade, Taiwan, Iran and broader economic cooperation. But so far neither side has signaled a significant agreement.
The White House said Trump’s visit was aimed at improving economic outcomes, including possible commitments by China to increase purchases of U.S. agricultural products such as soybeans and beef, as well as aircraft. Officials also stated that talks were also held on establishing a formal trade mechanism to manage bilateral disputes.
The visit also comes at a time of rising tensions over Iran, where conflict has disrupted energy markets and driven up global oil prices. China, the largest buyer of Iranian oil, is expected to face pressure from Washington to play a greater role in easing the crisis. Talks are expected to include Taiwan after Washington approved an $11 billion arms package for the island, which China claims as its own territory. This issue remains a major point of friction between the two powers.
Aside from political tensions, economic discussions are expected to focus on extending a fragile trade truce reached last year, rare earth supply chains and greater US access to Chinese markets.
Trump is also accompanied by a large delegation of senior officials and businessmen, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, as well as executives from major technology and defense companies.
The visit is expected to include other ceremonial events, including a state banquet and a tour of historical sites in Beijing.
