Trump to host Xi amid pomp, low expectations

Washington — The U.S. military honor guard has been rehearsing and the new White House helipad is ready, signaling a grand gathering for the upcoming summit between Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump. However, the question remains whether the two leaders will find common ground to propel their relationship forward.

Underlying the summit are concerns over artificial intelligence and its potential risks, as both nations vie for technological dominance. Additionally, the tension between the two superpowers is exacerbated by President Trump's ongoing military campaign in Iran and China's strategic efforts to maintain favorable relations with Tehran, despite the possibility of U.S. sanctions on any country dealing with Iran.

The looming trade war between the world's two largest economies adds another layer of complexity to the already delicate diplomatic situation. As the two leaders prepare for the summit, they must navigate a web of challenges, including the potential for military conflict over Taiwan, all while maintaining the appearance of a strong partnership in the eyes of the global media.