President Donald Trump hosted Chinese President Xi Jinping at the White House on Thursday, marking a high-profile meeting focused on strengthening U.S.-China relations amid ongoing trade tensions and strategic competition. The visit included a three-hour private meeting followed by a state dinner attended by prominent figures from the technology sector.
The visit began with a series of ceremonial events, including brief remarks in the White House Grand Foyer and a military review featuring a flyover by fighter jets and a B-2 stealth bomber in the Rose Garden. Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, arrived at the Executive Mansion in the early evening for the dinner, which drew tech industry leaders such as Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, Sundar Pichai, Tim Cook, Jensen Huang, Sam Altman, and Michael Dell.
During the event, Trump presented Xi with a bald eagle sculpture, symbolizing the United States’ national emblem and spirit. Trump highlighted that the gift was crafted by an American artist with input from first lady Melania Trump. The president also invited Xi to tour the White House’s renovated ballroom, one of his personal projects.
Outside the White House, protesters representing various Chinese minority groups demonstrated, including acts mocking Xi by dressing as Winnie the Pooh—a character that has been censored in China due to its perceived resemblance to the Chinese leader.
Xi refrained from answering questions from the press but made opening remarks signaling areas of potential cooperation. He expressed interest in introducing Chinese automobile brands to the U.S. market, emphasizing the need for fair treatment of Chinese businesses. Xi also proposed collaboration with the United States on artificial intelligence development and management, stating a desire to work together to harness AI “for good.”
In addition, Xi announced the loan of two pandas to an Atlanta zoo as a cultural gesture and indicated willingness to cooperate on counter-narcotics efforts. However, U.S. officials have criticized Beijing for insufficient action to stem the flow of fentanyl shipments into America.
The private meeting reportedly addressed contentious issues such as trade tariffs, Beijing’s support for Iranian and Russian military activities, and drug trafficking, though the details have not been publicly disclosed. Trump pointed out a photo of himself with Xi displayed in the White House’s West Wing during their time together, signaling goodwill despite previous fluctuations in the relationship.
In his toast at the state dinner, Xi described their discussions as “sincere and in-depth,” asserting that they reached common understandings on several topics that would contribute to strategic stability in bilateral ties. He drew parallels between Trump’s “Make America Great Again” campaign and China’s ongoing modernization efforts, suggesting that both countries’ ambitions could complement each other.
The visit reflects cautious engagement between the two leaders amid unresolved economic and security disputes, with both sides seeking avenues for cooperation moving forward.