Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump held extensive talks in Beijing on Thursday following a formal state welcome, with both leaders emphasizing the importance of stable relations while acknowledging major disagreements over trade, technology and Taiwan.
The nearly two-hour meeting focused on economic cooperation, market access and regional security concerns, including tensions in the Middle East and the Strait of Hormuz.
Xi described the relationship between China and the United States as “the most important bilateral relationship in the world,” while Trump called the discussions “extremely positive” and praised Xi’s leadership.
The White House said the two sides discussed expanding market access for American businesses and increasing Chinese investment in US industries.
Xi said China and the United States should become “partners, not rivals,” stressing that mutual respect remained essential for stable ties.
According to a Chinese Foreign Ministry readout, both leaders agreed to frame bilateral relations as “constructive, strategic and stable” for the coming years.
Xi also warned that mishandling the Taiwan issue could push relations into “a very dangerous situation,” repeating Beijing’s longstanding concerns over the self-governed island.
Trump, meanwhile, pressed China to open its markets further to US companies and increase purchases of American products.
Despite positive messaging from both governments, differences remain over tariffs, export controls and competition in advanced technologies.
The talks also touched on the war involving Iran, with China’s role as Tehran’s largest oil and gas customer making the issue a key point of discussion.
The White House said both countries agreed that the Strait of Hormuz should remain open to ensure global energy flows.
Trump later invited Xi to visit the White House on September 24, extending the invitation to China’s First Lady Peng Liyuan as well.
At a state banquet in Beijing, Xi said the goals of “making America great again” and the “great rejuvenation” of China could “go hand in hand.”
Trump referred to Xi as “my friend” and described US-China ties as among the world’s most consequential relationships.