Beijing, May 14: Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump held high-level talks in Beijing on Thursday, discussing a range of sensitive issues including Taiwan, trade relations, artificial intelligence, and the situation in Iran.
During the meeting at the Great Hall of the People, Xi said the Taiwan issue remains a key matter in China-U.S. relations and stressed the importance of handling it carefully to maintain stability between the two countries.
Trump, who is visiting China for the first time since returning to office, described Xi as a “great leader” and expressed confidence about the future of ties between Washington and Beijing.
The discussions also focused on trade and tariffs, with both sides expected to consider extending a temporary tariff agreement reached last year. The United States and China have faced ongoing economic tensions in recent years, including high tariffs and disputes over technology and exports.
Taiwan continues to be a sensitive issue for Beijing, which considers the island part of its territory. The United States maintains unofficial relations with Taiwan and continues to provide defensive support under U.S. law.
The leaders also exchanged views on the Iran conflict and broader global security concerns. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington hopes China can help reduce tensions in the Persian Gulf region.
Several American business leaders, including Jensen Huang and Elon Musk, were part of Trump’s delegation during the visit.
Trump is also expected to attend a state banquet hosted by Xi and visit the historic Temple of Heaven as part of his trip.