US President Donald Trump arrived in Beijing on Wednesday for a high-level meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Trump landed in the Chinese capital aboard Air Force One and received a formal welcome from Chinese Vice-President Han Zheng. The visit marks Trump’s first trip to China since 2017.
The two leaders are expected to discuss several major issues during the two-day meeting. Key topics include trade tariffs, technology competition, the ongoing Iran conflict, and US relations with Taiwan.
Trump had planned to visit China earlier in March. However, the trip was postponed due to the conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran.
Several prominent American business leaders also arrived in Beijing with the US president. Among them were Elon Musk and Jensen Huang.
Before landing in Beijing, Trump said he would urge Xi to allow more access for American technology companies in China.
Trump described Xi as a leader of “extraordinary distinction” and said opening China’s market could help both countries benefit from innovation and business growth.
The war involving Iran is expected to dominate discussions between the two leaders. China depends heavily on Iranian oil exports, which have faced disruption due to tensions around the Strait of Hormuz.
Beijing also faces pressure from Washington to use its influence over Iran. China and Iran have maintained close economic ties for decades, with China remaining Tehran’s largest trading partner.
Taiwan is also expected to feature in the talks. The Trump administration recently approved a major arms deal for Taiwan, while also sending mixed signals about direct US military support for the island.
Trade issues remain another major focus. Trump is expected to push China to increase purchases of US agricultural products. Chinese officials are likely to press Washington to reduce tariffs on Chinese goods.
