WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump is set to host Chinese President Xi Jinping at the White House on Thursday, September 24, for talks expected to focus on artificial intelligence, trade and Iran as Washington and Beijing seek to contain tensions between the world’s two largest economies.
The meeting will come months after Trump visited Beijing, where the two leaders held talks and discussed a range of bilateral and international issues. Xi’s Washington visit is expected to include a formal welcome ceremony and a state dinner.
Trump has said he expects to discuss “almost everything” with Xi, while preparations for the visit have included work on a new White House helipad and rehearsals for the ceremonial welcome.
AI Race
Artificial intelligence is expected to be a major issue at the summit as the United States and China compete for technological leadership while facing growing concerns over the risks posed by advanced AI.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Washington is open to discussing shared AI risks with Beijing. Bessent is also due to meet Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng in New York ahead of the presidential summit, with trade, rare earths and other economic issues also on the agenda.
The two countries have pursued separate approaches to AI development and regulation, while Washington has restricted China’s access to some advanced technologies.
Trade Tensions
Trade is another key issue.
Washington and Beijing are seeking progress on tariffs and other economic restrictions after years of escalating trade tensions. China has said it hopes to reach an agreement with the United States on reciprocal tariff reductions covering billions of dollars in goods.
Officials are also discussing agricultural purchases, export controls and rare earth supplies ahead of the summit.
The two sides are also working on a framework for a bilateral Board of Trade, with discussions focused on easing tensions in less sensitive areas.
Iran
The war involving Iran is expected to add another layer to the talks.
Washington has been pressing countries dealing with Tehran over sanctions, while Beijing has maintained economic and diplomatic ties with Iran. Trump has played down reports alleging Chinese assistance to Iran, saying Xi had “behaved reasonably well” and noting that the United States also conducts intelligence operations.
Summit Optics
The White House is preparing for a high-profile reception for Xi, including ceremonial military arrangements and a state dinner.
Trump has also highlighted the newly completed White House helipad, which was accelerated ahead of the expected state visit. The project was brought forward as preparations for Xi’s visit gathered pace.
Trump’s planned $400 million White House ballroom, however, will not be ready for the Chinese president’s visit.
The focus on ceremony comes as both governments face difficult questions over the substance of their relationship, including technology competition, tariffs and their differing approaches to international conflicts.
Further Meetings
The September 24 summit could also set the stage for additional meetings between Trump and Xi later this year.
The two leaders are expected to have another opportunity to meet at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum in China in November. Trump has also indicated that he may invite Xi to the G20 summit in December.
For now, Washington and Beijing are working to prevent their disputes from escalating while seeking limited areas where cooperation remains possible.
