Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in the United States on September 23 for a three-day state visit, with US President Donald Trump personally welcoming him at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland. The arrival marked the beginning of a closely watched round of US-China discussions.
Trump’s decision to greet Xi at the airport was an unusual diplomatic gesture. The visit comes as Washington and Beijing continue to manage differences over trade, artificial intelligence, Taiwan, technology and other international issues.
The image shows Trump and Xi standing together on a red carpet near the Air China aircraft that carried the Chinese president to the United States.
An honor guard and US and Chinese flags were part of the formal welcome ceremony. Reuters confirmed that Xi arrived aboard a plane at Joint Base Andrews for the state visit.
Trade remains one of the central subjects in the US-China relationship. Reports say the two sides have been working to extend a trade truce that had reduced some tensions following earlier tariff disputes. The leaders are also expected to discuss agricultural purchases, investment and broader economic cooperation.
Artificial intelligence is another major issue on the agenda. Both countries are competing in advanced technology, while discussions are also taking place around AI safety and communication mechanisms between the two sides.
The summit also comes amid continuing differences over Taiwan and other geopolitical matters. The war involving Iran and questions surrounding China’s relationship with Iran are among the wider international issues that could feature in discussions.
The White House said Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, were scheduled for an official state arrival ceremony on September 24, followed by meetings and a state dinner. The visit is scheduled to continue through September 25.
The Trump-Xi Jinping summit therefore brings together economic, technological and geopolitical concerns at a time when the world’s two largest economies are seeking to manage their differences while maintaining dialogue.