Chinese President Xi Jinping welcomed US President Donald Trump in Beijing on Thursday. He opened a high-level meeting focused on trade, security, and global tensions.

Xi stressed the importance of the talks. He said, “Welcome back to China after nine years. The whole world is watching this meeting today. China and US should be partners, not enemies,”

Trump praises Xi and US–China ties

Trump thanked Xi for the invitation. He praised the meeting and the relationship between the two countries. He said, “It is an honour” to be friends with Xi.

Trump also said the two nations will have a “fantastic future together.” He called the meeting an “honour like few I’ve ever seen before.”

Leaders begin high-stakes talks

Trump entered the talks to secure economic gains. He also aimed to protect a fragile trade truce. Both sides also discussed sensitive issues. These include the Iran war and US arms sales to Taiwan.

Business leaders join the visit

Top US CEOs joined Trump on the trip to Beijing. Elon Musk and Jensen Huang also travelled with him. Huang represents NVIDIA. Reports said Huang joined at the last moment. He boarded Air Force One during a refuelling stop in Alaska.

Packed schedule for both leaders

The White House confirmed a full schedule. Xi and Trump will meet at the Great Hall of the People. They will also visit the Temple of Heaven. They will attend a state banquet on Thursday.

On Friday, they will continue talks over tea and lunch. Both sides aim to improve relations. They also want to manage economic and geopolitical tensions.