US President Donald Trump personally welcomed Chinese President Xi Jinping at Joint Base Andrews outside Washington on Wednesday, marking a rare high-level airport reception for the Chinese leader.
After Xi stepped off his aircraft, Trump and First Lady Melania Trump greeted him and his wife, Peng Liyuan, with handshakes. A red carpet was laid out at the military base for the arrival ceremony.
Trump and Xi later stood side by side as military bands played the national anthems of the United States and China. Two B-1 bombers were also seen flying overhead. The loud aircraft noise appeared to startle Trump briefly, while Xi remained composed.
The reception drew attention because Trump did not receive a similar airport welcome during his visit to Beijing in May. Trump, however, played down the difference, saying he believed the reception was good and that the Chinese side had also appreciated it.
Iran, AI and trade on agenda
The visit marks the third meeting between Trump and Xi since the US president returned to office for a second term. On Thursday, Xi is scheduled to receive a formal welcome at the White House, attend a military parade, hold talks with Trump in the Oval Office and join a state dinner.
On Friday morning, Trump and Xi, accompanied by their wives, are expected to have tea at the White House before visiting the National Archives, which houses key historical documents including the US Declaration of Independence.
Expectations for a major agreement or breakthrough from the summit remain limited. Analysts say one of the key objectives is to maintain the fragile stability between the world’s two largest economies.
Iran’s war is also expected to feature in the talks. Trump said on Wednesday that he would discuss the issue with Xi. He had previously played down reports alleging that China had provided intelligence to Iran.
Trade tensions are another major issue, particularly over the sweeping tariffs imposed by Trump. Following several rounds of talks between officials from the two countries, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the existing trade truce had been extended.
The agreement, which was due to expire on November 10, will now remain in effect until January 10. Bessent described the extension as a step toward reducing “economic tensions” between the two countries.
Expectations for a major business deal have nevertheless diminished. According to two sources cited by AFP, no chief executive of a Chinese company is part of Xi’s delegation. By contrast, executives from leading US technology and major artificial intelligence companies are expected to attend Thursday’s state dinner.
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