Web Desk: US President Donald Trump invited Chinese President Xi Jinping and First Lady Peng Liyuan to visit the White House on Sept. 24 as the two leaders opened a high-stakes summit in Beijing aimed at stabilising ties between the world’s two largest economies amid rising geopolitical uncertainty.
The meeting marks the first visit to China by a US president since Trump’s previous trip in 2017 and comes at a time of mounting global instability driven by conflict in the Middle East, energy market disruptions and intensifying strategic competition between Washington and Beijing.
Over two days of talks, the two leaders are expected to discuss the war involving Iran, trade relations, technology restrictions, Taiwan and broader regional security concerns.
During remarks at an official event in Beijing, Trump emphasized the long historical connection between the American and Chinese people and described bilateral relations as “very special.”
He said both nations shared values centered on hard work, family and national pride, while stressing the need for greater cooperation despite ongoing tensions.
“Together we have the opportunity to build a future of greater prosperity, peace and opportunity for future generations,” Trump said.
The US president also highlighted the cultural and economic ties between the two countries, noting the popularity of basketball and American fashion brands in China, while pointing to the growing presence of Chinese cuisine across the United States.
In addition, Trump referenced historical cooperation dating back centuries, including Chinese workers’ role in constructing American railroads and US support for educational initiatives in China.
He said former President Theodore Roosevelt had helped provide funding connected to the establishment of Tsinghua University, Xi’s alma mater, following discussions with Chinese representatives at the time.
Economic issues remained central to the summit discussions.
Trump told Fox News that Xi had expressed willingness to cooperate on efforts related to the Iran crisis and broader international stability.
He also said the Chinese leader agreed to scale back a previously discussed aircraft purchase plan from 500 to 200 Boeing 737 Max jets while committing to increased imports of American soybeans, oil and liquefied natural gas.
The announcements, if finalised, could provide relief to key US industries seeking expanded access to Chinese markets amid years of trade disputes and supply chain tensions.
Meanwhile, officials from both sides continued discussions on tariffs, technology restrictions and investment cooperation.
Xi, speaking during a formal banquet, urged both countries to maintain relations based on mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and mutually beneficial cooperation.
“The world is undergoing profound changes and instability,” Xi said. “Both sides should shoulder their historic responsibilities and guide China-U.S. relations steadily in the right direction.”
He concluded his remarks with a toast to the prosperity of both nations and the future of bilateral relations, while also wishing Trump good health.
Trump later described the reception in Beijing as “magnificent” and said discussions with the Chinese delegation had been “extremely positive and productive.”
The summit is being closely watched by global markets and foreign policy analysts, who view the outcome as potentially significant for trade flows, regional security and the future balance of power between Washington and Beijing.
Read more: Trump arrives in Beijing for high-stakes talks with Xi Jinping
