Xi Jinping and Trump emphasize cooperation despite trade conflict

As part of his state visit to the USA, Chinese head of state Xi Jinping and his host, US President Donald Trump, expressed their willingness to work together in the White House. “I am here to expand friendship and cooperation,” Xi said upon his arrival. Trump spoke of a “truly great friendship” with ‌Xi.

Both states are rivals in several areas - especially trade. In the spring of 2025, the trade conflict between the two largest economies escalated when the US increased its import tariffs on Chinese goods to up to 145 percent. China responded with counter tariffs of up to 125 percent. In October, Trump and Xi agreed in Busan, South Korea, among other things, to suspend high additional tariffs. At the start of the state visit, the US extended the tariff pause until January 10, 2027.

But the disputes between the two great powers are not just about tariffs. China criticizes US export controls on semiconductors and chips for the development of artificial intelligence. The US government, however, accuses China of deliberately withholding certain raw materials. To export rare earths, foreign companies currently require permits issued by the Chinese Ministry of Commerce.

Xi reiterates willingness to cooperate

However, "enormous progress" has now been made on the problems facing both countries, Xi said during his first US state visit since 2015. Cooperation between China and the US may not be able to solve every problem in the world. "But without our cooperation it would be difficult to solve many of the world's problems," said the Chinese head of state. China and the United States have “a historic responsibility to promote human development and progress.”

As a sign of goodwill, Xi announced that two pandas would be moving into the Atlanta Zoo in a few days. In addition, China wants to invite 100,000 young US citizens for exchange and study visits over the next five years. Both countries must coexist peacefully and competition should be conducted positively and within limits, Xi said.

State dinner with the heads of major US tech companies

Trump said in the White House that he would discuss "pressing issues" with Xi. This included discussions about security, technology and artificial intelligence. In addition, they are working towards a more balanced trade relationship that should provide US farmers with new market access.

A state dinner is planned for the evening (local time), at which the heads of major US tech companies are also expected. Artificial intelligence and the associated competition between the two economies are central topics of Xi's visit.

China's President ends his visit to the USA on Friday. Before his departure, the general secretary of the Chinese Communist Party will meet with Trump again. A tea ceremony is planned, followed by a visit to the National Archives to view founding documents of the USA.