BEIJING - Chinese President Xi Jinping has declared that the United States and China ought to function as "partners, not rivals," during his talks with visiting US President Donald Trump on Thursday. The meeting, held at the Great Hall of the People, occurred as Xi characterized the current global landscape as one of "transformations not seen in a century" and at "a new crossroads." Xi stressed shared interests and mutual opportunities, asserting that a stable bilateral relationship benefits the world.
The discussions between the two leaders touched upon a spectrum of contentious issues, including the ongoing Middle East conflict, Taiwan, and trade tariffs. Trump's delegation included Eric Trump and Lara Trump. The visit unfolds against the backdrop of significant international tensions, notably the US-Israel strikes against Iran, which Beijing has repeatedly called for dialogue to resolve. Washington, conversely, has accused China of bolstering Iran's military and economic capabilities.
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"The world was undergoing transformations 'not seen in a century' and described the international situation as fluid and turbulent, adding that the it had reached 'a new crossroads.'"
Trump, who called Xi a "great leader and a friend," arrived in Beijing for what are described as "high-stakes talks." The summit began with warm opening remarks and displays of diplomatic symbolism, offering a stark contrast to the underlying disputes regarding Iran, Taiwan, tariffs, and strategic competition in Asia. Trump's negotiating position is reportedly complicated by recent US court rulings that have restricted his ability to unilaterally impose tariffs. A primary objective for Trump during the summit is reportedly to enlist China's influence in persuading Tehran to negotiate an end to the conflict.
Xi welcomed Trump back to China, noting his absence for nine years and extending congratulations to the US on the upcoming 250th anniversary of American Independence. The Chinese President framed the discussions as addressing "questions vital to history, to the world and to the people," including the potential to "create a new paradigm of major country relations" and jointly tackle global challenges.
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"We should be partners, not rivals."
The meetings are set to continue, with Trump scheduled to return to Washington on Friday. Global markets are reportedly monitoring the summit closely, anticipating its potential impact on trade flows, oil prices, and geopolitical stability. The current engagement seeks to stabilize the trading relationship between the US and China, a notable shift from the "rockier" dynamic of just over a year ago.
