Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Washington on Wednesday for a three-day visit that began with an unusually elaborate welcome from US President Donald Trump, highlighting the importance both sides attach to keeping ties stable despite their differences.
Trump personally received Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, as they stepped off their plane at Joint Base Andrews. The welcome included a 100-foot red carpet, a 21-member honour guard, military contingents, the national anthems of both countries and a flypast by two B-1 bombers.
Trump, who has repeatedly praised Xi as a "great leader" and described him as a friend, removed one glove to shake hands with the Chinese president and exchanged a few words with him before accompanying the couple.
The high-profile reception came as US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced that Washington and Beijing had agreed to extend their trade truce until January 10. The arrangement keeps a freeze on new trade restrictions while the two sides address disagreements over tariffs, China's exports of critical minerals and its purchases of US farm products.
Bessent said the extension would give Trump and Xi additional time to work through outstanding issues during upcoming international summits. The trade relationship remains one of the central areas of tension between the two countries, alongside artificial intelligence, Iran and Taiwan.
In a statement after landing, Xi said China and the US "should be partners, not rivals". He said China's pursuit of national rejuvenation and Trump's "Make America Great Again" agenda could "go hand in hand", allowing the two countries to contribute to each other's success.
The elaborate welcome, however, drew criticism from some Republicans. Senator Roger Wicker questioned what he called a "lavish welcome", while former US diplomat Danny Russel said the ceremony could give Beijing a propaganda advantage.
Trump and Xi are expected to turn to substantive discussions on Thursday, with trade and broader strategic issues on the agenda. The day will include a formal White House ceremony, a military review and a black-tie dinner attended by prominent technology executives.
The visit will conclude Friday with a private tea at the White House and a tour of the National Archives by Xi, Peng, Trump and first lady Melania Trump.
