Chinese President Xi Jinping visits the US for high-level meetings with Donald Trump

Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in the United States on Wednesday for a three-day state visit. In a rare diplomatic departure from protocol, President Donald Trump personally greeted the Chinese leader at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, marking the first time a US president has performed such a reception for a foreign head of state in 11 years. The arrival ceremony featured a military band, a 21-gun salute, and a flyover by US aircraft, including B-1 bombers and F-22 fighters.

During the visit, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced that the two nations have agreed to extend their trade truce until at least early 2027, with specific intermediate milestones set for January 10. This economic de-escalation allows both powers to maintain lower tariffs and continue critical resource flows while working toward more balanced trade relations. The leaders subsequently gathered at the White House on Thursday for in-depth discussions.

The summit, representing the third meeting between the two leaders in 11 months, focuses on key bilateral issues including trade, security, and artificial intelligence. Both leaders emphasized a shift toward partnership, with President Xi stating that China and the US should be partners rather than rivals. They are continuing talks to deepen cooperation and establish guidelines for positive competition.