President Trump and President Xi Jinping Hold State Visit

Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived at the White House, where President Donald Trump emphasized the “truly great friendship” between their nations during his opening remarks.

This morning, the Trump family welcomed Xi, along with Chinese First Lady Peng Liyuan. Both leaders took turns giving a speech, with translators facilitating communication for their respective delegations.

After the national anthems of both countries were played, Trump expressed his gratitude for the warm hospitality he received during his trip to China last May and noted that Xi is the first Chinese leader to make two formal state visits to the U.S.

He mentioned that he and Xi have developed a strong friendship since his 2016 election, reflecting on their various meetings across the globe—from Germany and Argentina to Japan, South Korea, and Beijing to Palm Beach.

Trump pointed out that the landscape at the White House has shifted significantly since Xi’s last visit, which took place during Barack Obama’s presidency in September 2015.

In his remarks, Trump highlighted efforts made by both parties to establish a “Board of Trade” aimed at facilitating trade and lowering tariffs. “Our teams have been working to promote a more balanced trading relationship, including new market access for American farmers,” he explained.

Trump indicated he was eager to discuss several topics during Xi’s visit, such as security, technology, and developments in artificial intelligence. Given that this visit coincides with the 250th anniversary of American independence, they plan to visit the National Archives in D.C. to view historical artifacts, including the Declaration of Independence. They’ll also examine items symbolizing the long-standing relationship between the U.S. and China.

Trump expressed his belief that a focus on shared interests can lead to significant achievements. He referred to historical connections, stating, “Throughout history, pursuit of those common interests has connected our people across the vast oceans.” He also made a cultural remark about how U.S. Marines adopted the phrase “gung ho,” which means “working together” in Chinese but conveys enthusiasm in America.

“President Xi and I will continue working together to forge a better future for both our nations,” Trump concluded, thanking Xi and his First Lady for their visit.

In his address, delivered in Mandarin, Xi congratulated the U.S. on its Semiquincentennial, expressing his commitment to fostering friendship and cooperation for the benefit of both nations.

Xi emphasized the historic responsibility of both countries in furthering human development, reiterating their recent agreement to strengthen the China-U.S. relationship. He shared a hopeful vision of collaboration, inviting exchanges that would lead to “business partnerships, investments, and military communication.” He suggested that their relationship should resemble a cooperative race rather than a competitive struggle.

Furthermore, Xi proposed that 100,000 young Americans could visit China through student exchange programs over the next five years. He also shared that two pandas, Ping Ping and Fu Shuang, would soon join a zoo in Atlanta as symbols of friendship.

Later, both couples stepped outside to witness a Silent Drill Platoon perform, along with a U.S. Military Review, on the grounds of the White House.