Trump Considers Visit to China Following Xi’s Invitation as Trade Tensions Cool

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Xi-Trump

Key Points

  • US President Donald Trump confirms invitation from Chinese President Xi Jinping for an official visit to China “soon.”
  • Discussions are underway between top US and Chinese advisors for a possible high-level meeting later this year.
  • Trump’s visit may coincide with his upcoming Asia tour and the 80th anniversary commemorations of World War II in Beijing on September 3.
  • Recent diplomatic overtures include halted tariff escalations, high-level dialogues, and signals from both sides seeking stable trade relations.
  • China has extended invitations to international dignitaries, including the US, as part of broader efforts to improve ties.

WashingtonD.C.: US President Donald Trump on Monday announced that he has received an invitation from Chinese President Xi Jinping to visit China. Speaking at a press conference, Trump stated, “President Xi has invited me to visit China. Probably we will go there soon,” raising expectations of a breakthrough in US-China diplomatic ties.

While Trump did not provide a specific date, sources indicate that discussions are ongoing among senior advisors from both nations about a potential meeting later this year. This highly anticipated visit could be scheduled during President Trump’s proposed tour of Asia and may coincide with the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, set for September 3 in Beijing, to which leaders from several countries have been invited.

A Shift in Tone Amid Eased Trade Disputes

The announcement comes at a time when Trump’s administration has adopted a more conciliatory approach toward China. Recently, he paused the escalating tariff war, offering relief not only to the US and Chinese economies but also to global trade and supply chains. Trump noted his readiness to discuss various international issues with President Xi, hinting that talks would span beyond economic matters.

China Steps Forward to Improve Relations

On the Chinese side, diplomatic efforts are also underway to stabilize the relationship. Commerce Minister Wang Wentao affirmed Beijing’s commitment to maintaining “stable and balanced” trade ties with the US. During recent meetings in Europe, Chinese officials signaled an intent to prevent a recurrence of the damaging tariff standoff.

China has also reached out to world leaders, inviting dignitaries including from the US to join the World War II anniversary commemoration in September, a major diplomatic event expected to see broad international participation.

Recent High-Level Diplomacy

A significant milestone in bilateral relations occurred on July 11, when US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Malaysia. Both sides regarded this high-level engagement as a critical step toward easing tensions and preventing further deterioration in relations.

Trump reiterated his administration’s commitment to seeking a “permanent solution” to trade tariffs by August 12, indicating that failure to do so could see tensions escalate once again.

Why This Meeting Matters

The proposed Trump-Xi summit, if realized, will signal a pivotal moment in US-China relations, with implications for global economics and geopolitics. The willingness from both sides to resume high-level diplomatic engagement offers hope for a more stable international environment.

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