Watch: Xi Welcomes Trump with Lavish Ceremony in Beijing

Trump Meets Xi Jinping in Beijing

Chinese President Xi Jinping greeted President Donald Trump during a vibrant ceremony in Beijing on Thursday.

Trump arrived at the Great Hall of the People at 10 a.m. local time (10 p.m. ET), stepping out of his motorcade to shake hands with Xi. Their handshake lasted about 12 seconds before they posed for a photo.

Following that, Trump introduced Xi to the U.S. delegation, which featured Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Army Secretary Pete Hegseth, Trade Representative Jameson Greer, and several others, including Eric Trump from the Trump Organization.

Once on the red dais, a Chinese military band played the Star-Spangled Banner, followed by the Chinese national anthem, with artillery fire heard in the background. Trump later inspected the Chinese military.

As they passed a group of schoolchildren who were joyfully jumping and waving flags from both nations, it added a lively touch to the ceremony.

Trump and Xi ascended the stairs of the Great Hall, looked out over Tiananmen Square, and entered the building, where both delegations gathered around a large table.

Trump expressed his admiration, saying, “It was an honor that very few people have ever had. I think I was particularly impressed by those kids. They were happy. They were beautiful.” He acknowledged the importance of the military but emphasized the children’s significance and what they represent.

He also remarked on their long-standing relationship: “You and I have known each other for a long time… even when there were challenges, we got along and worked them out.” Trump labeled Xi as a “great leader,” highlighting the presence of heads from major companies like Tesla’s Elon Musk, Apple’s Tim Cook, and Nvidia’s Jensen Huang.

Xi reciprocated that sentiment, noting, “And they are here today to pay tribute to you and China. They are looking forward to trade and business. And it will be completely reciprocal on our behalf.” He seemed optimistic about the upcoming discussions.