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US President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping are holding bilateral talks in Beijing during Trump’s visit to China.
The discussions are scheduled ahead of a dinner hosted by China in honor of President Trump.
Key agenda items include tariffs, technological competition, the war in Iran, and Taiwan-related issues.
Trump’s visit to China had been planned for March but was delayed due to the ongoing war in Iran. This marks his first visit to China in nearly a decade.
During the visit, Trump is expected to pressure China to help end the conflict in Iran, as China has been purchasing cheaper oil from Iran.
What do both countries want?
Beijing also desires an immediate end to the war in Iran. The conflict has reduced purchasing power among countries importing oil from China due to supply restrictions.
However, domestic oil fields and other resources in China are believed to help the country better withstand the negative effects of the war compared to others.
According to Asia Trade Correspondent Suranjana Tiwari, the trade agreement between the two countries made last October is becoming a significant topic for China.
Delays in implementing the agreement have escalated tensions concerning tariffs. The agreement is set to expire in November.
It is expected that Beijing may signal an increase in imports from the US, including Boeing aircraft, beef, and soybeans, as well as the future formation of investment and trade boards.
China is focusing talks on tariffs, technology, and the Taiwan issue, asserting that Taiwan is part of its territory.
Technology and supply chain matters remain complex. China hopes the US will ease restrictions on chips and chip-making equipment.
Meanwhile, Washington aims to secure a stable supply of rare metals essential for the automotive and aerospace industries.
Image source, CGTN
Leading Figures from Industry
Alongside President Trump, key leaders from business and the technology sectors are part of the delegation visiting Beijing.
The delegation includes Apple’s Tim Cook, Tesla and SpaceX’s Elon Musk, BlackRock’s Larry Fink, along with executives from Meta, Visa, JP Morgan, Boeing, Cargill, and other major companies.
According to a White House official, a total of 17 CEOs from American companies are participating in the delegation.
The talks are also expected to cover critical issues such as the war in Iran, maritime security, and the Strait of Hormuz — a vital channel for transporting liquefied natural gas and oil.
Experts note that subtle differences in language or phrasing between the two sides could significantly impact trade and regional security matters.
