Trump and Xi conclude high-stakes Beijing summit

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are set to conclude a two-day summit in Beijing on Friday, with trade, Taiwan and regional security dominating discussions between the world’s two largest economies.

The visit marks Trump’s first trip to China since 2017 and comes as both countries attempt to preserve a fragile trade truce reached last year. The summit featured formal ceremonies, business agreements and high-level talks aimed at easing tensions between Washington and Beijing.

Trump expressed optimism about bilateral relations, saying he hoped ties between the two countries would become “stronger and better than ever before.” The two leaders are scheduled to hold further meetings over tea and lunch at the Zhongnanhai leadership compound before Trump departs China.

Chinese officials said negotiations on trade issues had reached “balanced and positive outcomes,” although no detailed agreements were announced publicly. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer stated that discussions included future mechanisms for managing trade disputes and expanding bilateral commerce.

Among the reported developments were agreements involving Chinese purchases of American agricultural products, beef and Boeing aircraft. Trump claimed China would order 200 Boeing jets, though the figure fell short of market expectations.

The Taiwan issue also emerged as a major point of concern during the summit. Xi warned that mishandling Taiwan-related matters could seriously damage bilateral relations. China considers Taiwan part of its territory, while the United States maintains support for the island’s self-defense capabilities.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reiterated that Washington’s policy on Taiwan remains unchanged.

The leaders also discussed Middle East tensions and the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy shipping route. Trump said Xi had expressed willingness to help support diplomatic efforts involving Iran.

The summit reflects ongoing efforts by both powers to stabilise relations despite continuing geopolitical and economic rivalry.