US President Donald Trump and China’s President Xi Jinping meet in Beijing for a high-stakes summit that covers major thorny issues including Iran, Ukraine, trade and Taiwan. At the start of the talks, Trump praises Xi and says the countries “would have a fantastic future together,” calling Xi “an honour to be your friend.” Xi, while maintaining a comparatively restrained tone, says the two sides “should be partners, not rivals,” and discusses the need to move beyond a “Thucydides Trap,” a reference to historical patterns of war between rising and ruling powers.
Beyond the official agenda, sources highlight symbolic moments and public reactions. Reports describe a red-carpet welcome at the Great Hall of the People, including band fanfare, a gun salute and children chanting “welcome!” Observers also note a long handshake and the contrast between Trump’s social-media expectations of a “big, fat hug” and the formal greeting that occurs. Social media in China draws humorous attention, including fast-food-themed memes.
Several accounts also describe tensions on the summit’s sidelines, involving clashes between US and Chinese security and media access, including disputes over an agent’s weapon and difficulties around movement and seating. Separate reporting adds that US officials and media reportedly hand over badges and pins provided by China and receive security guidance on cybersecurity.
