Trump Arrives In Beijing Seeking Major Trade Breakthrough

President Donald Trump arrived in Beijing on Wednesday for a high-stakes meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, kicking off a closely watched visit aimed at easing tensions between the world’s two largest economies…

Andrew PowellMay 13, 20263 min read

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Ahead of the trip, Trump highlighted the long list of major

American business leaders

accompanying the delegation, including Tim Cook, Larry Fink, Stephen Schwarzman, Kelly Ortberg, and David Solomon.

“I will be asking President Xi, a Leader of extraordinary distinction, to ‘open up’ China so that these brilliant people can work their magic, and help bring the People’s Republic to an even higher level!” Trump wrote on Truth Social before landing in Beijing.

“In fact, I promise, that when we are together, which will be in a matter of hours, I will make that my very first request.”

The visit comes after years of economic friction between Washington and Beijing.

Under President Trump, tariffs on Chinese imports climbed sharply, at times reaching triple digits, while China responded with restrictions on rare earth exports. The US also limited advanced chip sales to China amid concerns over artificial intelligence development.

Despite those clashes, Trump has repeatedly emphasized his personal relationship with Xi and expressed optimism about improving trade ties.

The president said Tuesday that Xi is expected to make a return visit to the United States later this year.

Trump’s trip had originally been planned for April but was delayed because of the conflict involving Iran. A cease-fire has been in place since April 8.

Lawmakers, including Lindsey Graham, have accused China of helping prop up Iran through intelligence support, oil purchases, and other assistance.

Trump, however, downplayed those concerns before departing for Beijing.

“I think he’s been relatively good , to be honest with you,” Trump told reporters.

In addition to trade and investment, discussions between the two leaders are expected to include artificial intelligence, nuclear weapons, Taiwan, and human rights concerns involving jailed Hong Kong publisher Jimmy Lai and Pastor Ezra Jin.

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