Trump and Xi Summit: US-China Praise for the Visit and Confirmation of Deep Partnership

SadaNews - After two hours of discussions, US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping concluded a summit on Thursday characterized by extensive discussions on several key issues, including trade, the Taiwan issue, and other outstanding disputes between the two countries.

At a dinner held in honor of the US President's visit, Xi described Trump's visit to Beijing as "historic," adding that China's resurgence and the mantra "Make America Great Again" can go hand in hand.

Xi stated that both the US and China benefit from cooperation and lose from confrontation, calling for them to be partners rather than adversaries.

For his part, Trump said that discussions with his Chinese counterpart were "positive and constructive," adding that relations between the US and China have been developing since the establishment of his country until today.

Trump further stated that the US has the opportunity to build a future based on more cooperation and prosperity with China, inviting Xi to visit Washington on September 25.

Details of the Visit

After Trump's arrival in Beijing, he attended a reception on Wednesday evening, then was welcomed by the Chinese President on Thursday morning at the Great Hall of the People, the legislative center of the communist government and the venue for important cultural and social events in the western side of Tiananmen Square.

According to the Associated Press, the two men shook hands and exchanged pleasantries, with Trump placing his hand on Xi's arm before taking souvenir photos.

The hall features a massive staircase covered with red carpet and vast marble spaces, where soldiers displayed large American and Chinese flags.

Beginning of Talks

According to Al Jazeera correspondent, the reception lasted about 15 minutes, after which the planned discussions began and were set to last for two hours.

The Chinese President expressed his eagerness to exchange views with the US President on key issues, adding that he has always believed that shared interests between China and the US outweigh differences.

He continued, "Let’s make 2026 a historic year and a significant milestone for China-US relations to continue the past and open new horizons for the future."

The Chinese President confirmed that dialogue is the best option for resolving outstanding disputes with the US side.

Reuters quoted Xi as affirming that there are no winners in a trade war, indicating that both sides achieved positive results.

Xi clarified that a stable relationship between Beijing and Washington benefits the entire world, adding that cooperation between the two countries yields gains for them, whereas confrontation leads to mutual harm.

For his part, Trump stated that the relationship between the US and China "will be better than ever," emphasizing that he has a good relationship with the Chinese President, whom he described as a "great leader."

The Taiwan Issue

Regarding Taiwan, the Chinese President stated that mishandling the Taiwan issue would lead to a clash between the US and China, adding that such mishandling could push US-China relations to a very dangerous state.

Xi continued, saying that if handled properly, bilateral relations can maintain overall stability, emphasizing that "Taiwan independence and peace across the Taiwan Strait are incompatible."

In turn, Taiwan announced that the US "has renewed its clear and firm support" for the island, according to Agence France-Presse.

At the conclusion of the talks, the Chinese President stated that China and the US will work to build stable strategic relations within a new context for bilateral ties, confirming that equitable consultation between the two sides is the only correct option for managing disputes and enhancing cooperation.

The Trajectory of Relations

After the talks concluded, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang stated at a press conference that the Chinese and US Presidents exchanged views on regional and international issues, pointing out the need to build sustained and strategic relations with Washington.

Regarding the Hormuz Strait crisis, Geng indicated that his country's stance on the crisis is "consistent and clear," without providing further details.

According to Al Jazeera's manager in Beijing, Shaimaa Jouei, the statements from the Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson did not deviate from what was officially leaked about what transpired between Xi and Trump.

She noted that when the Chinese official is asked by journalists about the US delegation, he replies, "The question should be referred to the US side."

Regarding the Taiwan issue, the Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson confirmed that Taiwan is the most significant determinant in bilateral relations, and that these relations could be affected depending on how Washington handles this issue.

The spokesperson reiterated his country's position against arms sales to Taiwan, commenting: "Our position on this matter is firm."

Source: Associated Press