US President Donald Trump is meeting Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing, with the two superpower leaders expected to discuss the Iran war, trade, Taiwan, and artificial intelligence. The visit includes a series of ceremonial events and bilateral meetings at the Great Hall of the People.
Welcome Ceremony and Motorcade
Trump inspected an honour guard during a welcome ceremony with Xi at the Great Hall of the People. Motorcycle escorts and security personnel accompanied the US president's motorcade through the city. Chinese People's Liberation Army members marched during the ceremony, and residents waited outside the airport to catch a glimpse of Air Force One.
Bilateral Meetings and Discussions
Xi Jinping and Donald Trump met in Beijing for a bilateral meeting, where they were joined by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and other officials. The leaders discussed key issues including the Iran war, trade imbalances, Taiwan's status, and the development of artificial intelligence.
Cultural and Symbolic Moments
A portrait of late Chinese chairman Mao Zedong hung in the background as a PLA member held up a US flag. People took photos as Trump's motorcade passed through the Wangfujing shopping street. Chinese youth, a military honour guard, and a military band joined Chinese officials to welcome Trump upon his arrival on Air Force One.
Regional Reactions
In Taipei, a man watched a television news programme at a restaurant showing the meeting between Trump and Xi, highlighting the regional interest in the talks. Trump also presented Tesla CEO Elon Musk to China's Vice-President Han Zheng at Beijing Capital Airport.
Public and Media Engagement
People gathered to see Trump's motorcade arrive at the Four Seasons hotel. An honour guard moved into place for the arrival ceremony, and a person watched on a smartphone as Trump arrived in China. Children waved Chinese and US flags, and honour guard members on Tiananmen Square fired gun salutes during the welcome ceremony.
The visit underscores the complex relationship between the two global powers, with both leaders seeking to address contentious issues while maintaining diplomatic engagement.
