US and Chinese leaders hold summit in Beijing
US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping began a two-day summit in Beijing at the Great Hall of the People. The leaders discussed key bilateral issues, including trade relations and geopolitical tensions, following preparatory negotiations in South Korea that were described as balanced and positive. President Xi emphasized that cooperation between the two powers is essential for global stability, while President Trump expressed optimism regarding the future of the relationship. The agenda includes critical topics such as the ongoing conflict involving Iran and its impact on oil supplies, as well as disagreements regarding US arms sales to Taiwan. China has officially denied recent US allegations that Chinese firms supported Iranian military operations or oil shipments. President Trump previously authorized an 11 billion dollar arms package for Taiwan, a move that remains a point of contention. Both leaders acknowledged that the global situation is at a critical turning point requiring new paths of understanding.