Trump Rolls Out Grand Welcome for Xi Jinping as US-China Talks Face Tensions Over Trade, Taiwan and Iran

US President Donald Trump is set to welcome Chinese President Xi Jinping to Washington on Wednesday for a three-day state visit, combining an elaborate diplomatic ceremony with negotiations over some of the most contentious issues in US-China relations.

Trump is expected to personally greet Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, when they arrive at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland. The airport welcome is unusual for a visiting foreign leader and reflects the importance Washington is placing on the summit.

The visit will include a formal military ceremony, aircraft flyovers, a White House state dinner attended by prominent figures from the technology and business sectors, and a visit to the National Archives, where key US founding documents are preserved.

Trade truce and economic tensions

The high-profile reception comes despite continuing disagreements between Washington and Beijing.

The two countries are operating under an 11-month trade truce that is due to expire in November. Talks are expected to cover tariffs and possible agreements affecting specific sectors, while rare-earth minerals and technology restrictions remain important points of contention.

The Chinese yuan has recently reached its strongest level against the US dollar in more than three years, with the People's Bank of China easing some measures that had previously restrained the currency's appreciation ahead of the summit.

Taiwan and technology on the agenda

Taiwan is expected to be one of the most sensitive issues during Thursday's talks. Beijing regards Taiwan as part of China, while Washington maintains longstanding ties with Taipei and provides it with defensive support.

US allies in Asia have expressed concern about how Trump may address Taiwan during discussions with Xi, particularly as the issue intersects with broader US-China negotiations.

Artificial intelligence is another major area of competition. Both countries are racing to develop advanced AI technologies while also discussing the risks associated with the sector. The leaders could explore greater dialogue on AI alongside wider technology disputes.

Iran adds another layer of tension

The summit is also taking place against the backdrop of the conflict involving Iran. Reuters reported that Tehran-related issues are expected to feature in the broader strategic discussions between Washington and Beijing.

Trump is also expected to raise the cases of Americans and other foreign nationals detained in China, according to people familiar with the preparations.

Despite the ceremonial emphasis surrounding Xi's visit, major differences remain between the two governments. The summit is therefore expected to combine efforts to manage existing tensions with negotiations on specific economic, security and diplomatic issues.

Xi's September 23-25 visit is his latest high-level engagement with Trump and follows their earlier meetings this year. China's Foreign Ministry has described the visit as an opportunity to strengthen dialogue, manage differences and expand cooperation between the two countries.