The meeting between President Donald Trump and China’s leader Xi Jinping on April 19 signaled a move towards a friendlier relationship between the two countries, despite existing tensions. Trump referred to Xi as “a great leader” and expressed a commitment to “a great future together” for the United States and China. Xi emphasized the need for caution on the Taiwan issue and described stability in China-US relations as a blessing for the world. Kathmandu, May 15. They shook hands. They walked together for a long time. One touched the other’s arm. They shook hands many times again. The meeting on Thursday between President Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping, amid disagreements on Taiwan, trade, and rare mineral resources, suggested their intent to steer their natural rivalry towards a more amicable relationship rather than a confrontational one.
Their body language contrasted with Trump’s firm criticism of China within the United States, which has distanced him from America’s traditional allies. This meeting was neither tense nor aggressive as seen in other encounters like the reception of the Ukrainian president in the Oval Office. Trump’s brusque behavior with Germany’s former Chancellor and NATO leaders was also absent in this encounter. Experts say this body language reflects Trump and Xi’s demonstrated will to reach an agreement. They mirrored in their demeanor the complex relationship between the two nations. Following the aggressive trade policies against China by the Trump administration last year and Beijing’s reaction, both countries have now opted for a path of tentative agreements.
“Considering the statements ahead of the summit, Trump appeared more enthusiastic about Xi Jinping; he seems genuinely eager to build a friendship,” said Melanie Hart, Senior Director of the Global China Hub at the Atlantic Council. She added, “This shows that Trump wants to personally like Xi, fostering a cordial relationship that could enable special opportunities and agreements. This is also evident in their body language.”
