Donald Trump is set to meet Xi Jinping in Beijing this week as the two sides face tensions over tariffs, Taiwan and broader US-China relations. [1, 2]
The trip will be the first visit to China by a sitting or current US president in 9 years. [1, 2] China did not confirm the visit until May 11, when Beijing's Foreign Ministry said leader-to-leader diplomacy plays an "irreplaceable strategic guiding role in China-US relations." [1]
Trump had predicted in mid-April that Xi would greet him with a "big, fat hug" on arrival, a remark that contrasted with the more guarded tone from Beijing. [1] Analysts quoted by Anadolu on May 12 said Xi would likely seek predictability and stability in ties with Washington, with one saying China wants "consistency over concessions." [2]
Taiwan, trade and tariffs are expected to be on the agenda, along with the wider strain in relations between the two powers. [1, 2] The summit is also taking place against the backdrop of war in the Middle East and the war in Iran, which both reports cited as part of the wider setting. [1, 2]
Trump's trip to China was set to begin on May 13. [1]
