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Grand ceremony marks Trump's arrival in China
Beijing rolled out an elaborate welcome for former U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday, signaling a potential thaw in relations between the world's two largest economies. A military honor guard lined the steps of the Great Hall of the People, where a 21-gun salute and the U.S. national anthem marked Trump's arrival. The event included schoolchildren waving Chinese and American flags, and Trump paused twice to greet them.
Personal diplomacy and warm gestures
Trump's interactions with Chinese President Xi Jinping appeared cordial. During their handshake, Trump patted Xi's arm in what observers described as a friendly gesture. In unscripted remarks, Trump praised Xi as a "great leader" and later called China "beautiful" while touring the 15th-century Temple of Heaven. At a state banquet, he described the talks as a "cherished" opportunity, a notable shift from his past rhetoric.
From tough talk to high-stakes negotiations
Trump's visit contrasts sharply with his previous stance on China. During his 2016 presidential campaign, he accused China of "raping" the U.S. economy and later labeled COVID-19 the "Chinese virus." In 2020, he vowed to "make China pay" for its trade practices. Last year, tariffs between the two nations exceeded 100% during a bitter trade war, though a fragile truce was later established.
The visit's agenda includes three critical issues: the future of U.S.-China trade relations, Iran's nuclear ambitions, and the status of Taiwan. State media reports suggest Taiwan remains a contentious point, with Xi emphasizing its sensitivity during initial talks.
Economic and geopolitical leverage on display
Beijing's lavish reception served dual purposes: flattering Trump while showcasing China's global influence. The event was attended by 30 U.S. CEOs, including Elon Musk, Tim Cook, and Nvidia's Jensen Huang, underscoring the economic stakes. Analysts note China's growing dominance in manufacturing, rare earth minerals, and green technology-sectors where it controls 30% to 90% of global production.
John Delury, a senior fellow at the Asia Society, described the summit as a symbol of China's rise. "Beijing is now the second world capital," he said, framing the visit as part of an irreversible shift in global power dynamics.
Iran and Taiwan loom over talks
Trump is expected to seek China's help in resolving the Iran crisis, particularly the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which has disrupted global energy supplies. China, Iran's largest trading partner, could play a pivotal role in negotiations. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged Beijing's potential leverage, telling Fox News, "It's in their interest to resolve this."
However, China is likely to demand concessions in return, particularly on Taiwan. Xi reportedly warned Trump that the island's status could spark conflict, though the U.S. is legally obligated to provide Taiwan with defensive arms. Neither leader addressed Taiwan when questioned by reporters at the Temple of Heaven.
Business delegation takes center stage
Unlike Trump's 2017 visit, which included First Lady Melania Trump, this trip focused heavily on economic ties. The accompanying business delegation highlighted U.S. demands for greater market access in China, while Beijing signaled openness to purchasing more American soybeans, beef, and Boeing aircraft. A White House statement described discussions as aimed at "enhancing economic cooperation," though no specific deals were announced.
Both sides agreed that Iran must not acquire nuclear weapons and that the Strait of Hormuz must remain open. They also pledged to frame their relationship as "constructive, strategic, and stable" for the next three years.
Economic pressures and mutual needs
Despite its global ambitions, China faces domestic challenges, including rising unemployment, a real estate crisis, and soaring local government debt. Analysts suggest Beijing needs stable U.S. relations to navigate these issues, even as it seeks to reduce dependence on Washington.
Trump, meanwhile, is eager for a diplomatic win amid declining approval ratings. At the banquet, he invited Xi to visit the White House in September. Xi responded by linking China's "great rejuvenation" with Trump's "Make America Great Again" slogan, toasting to "the future of both America and China."
