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Trump, Xi hold high-stakes talks in Beijing amid trade, Taiwan tensions

By The South Asia Times

BEIJING - US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping held high-stakes talks in Beijing on Thursday, with discussions focused on trade, Taiwan, artificial intelligence and the ongoing conflict involving Iran, according to Chinese state media and international reports.

Xi welcomed Trump at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing during the first US presidential visit to China in nearly nine years. Trump’s state visit to China runs from May 13 to 15, marking his second official visit to the country since 2017.

Chinese state news agency Xinhua said the two leaders would hold “an in-depth exchange of views on major issues concerning China-US relations and world peace and development.”

During the opening remarks, Xi warned that mishandling the Taiwan issue could lead to “clashes and even conflicts” between the two powers, while also stressing that China and the United States should be “partners, not rivals,” according to state media reports.

Trump, meanwhile, struck an optimistic tone, saying the United States and China would have a “fantastic future together” as both sides sought to stabilize ties amid mounting geopolitical tensions.

The summit comes as Washington seeks Beijing’s support in efforts related to Iran and regional stability in the Middle East, including concerns over energy routes and the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts said China could use its leverage on Iran as part of broader negotiations with the United States.

The two sides were also expected to discuss trade disputes, artificial intelligence, nuclear security and broader global stability. Reuters reported that a state banquet and further meetings were scheduled as part of Trump’s visit.

Trump was accompanied by senior US officials and business executives, while Xi hosted a ceremonial welcome featuring military honors and cultural performances in Beijing.