Beijing: Chinese President Xi Jinping said trade talks with the United States are progressing as he met U.S. President Donald Trump at the start of a two-day summit in Beijing on Thursday.
Trump’s visit, his first to China since 2017, comes as both sides seek to ease tensions between the world’s two largest economies.
Opening of Talks
Xi said preparatory discussions had produced an “overall balanced and positive outcome,” according to Chinese state media, and stressed the importance of stable China–U.S. relations.
Trump called Xi a “great leader” and described the summit as “one of the biggest ever,” expressing optimism about improved relations.
Trade Focus
The talks aim to extend a fragile trade truce and establish a framework for continued economic engagement.
The U.S. is seeking broader access for exports including energy, agriculture, and aircraft, while China is pushing for eased restrictions on semiconductor technology and chipmaking equipment.
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Other Issues
Discussions are also expected to include the Iran conflict and tensions over Taiwan, a long-standing point of friction.
Washington is expected to press Beijing to help reduce tensions with Tehran, while China has reiterated its opposition to U.S. arms sales to Taiwan.
Outlook
The summit reflects efforts to manage competition while maintaining limited cooperation on trade and global issues, with a possible reciprocal visit by Xi to the United States later this year.
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