Trump-Xi talks — Big optics, high stakes but few expected breakthroughs

Washington, September 17 - The US military honor guard underwent rehearsals and the new White House helipad was prepared for President Xi Jinping's upcoming summit with US President Donald Trump. However, doubts remain on whether the leaders will achieve significant breakthroughs. Concerns over AI and Iran's nuclear program weigh heavily on the agenda, along with the Iran war and trade tensions.

China's rapid rise as a global power adds a layer of complexity to the negotiations, while the desire to maintain the United States' status as a superpower is palpable.

Both leaders plan to discuss various issues during the summit on September 24, but experts suggest that the outcome will likely be limited. Jonathan Czin of the Brookings Institution expects the meeting to be more of a confirmation of the rapport between the two leaders than a major milestone. Representatives from both nations are wary of losing in the race for AI supremacy, and any concrete deals are currently out of reach.

Tensions between the US and China over Iran's nuclear program will also be addressed. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is set to meet his Chinese counterpart He Lifeng ahead of the summit to discuss Iran sanctions. Despite reports of Chinese entities supplying Iran with satellite imagery for an attack on a US military base in Jordan, Trump downplayed the claim, stating that both countries engage in such activities.

Trade is another area of concern, with potential progress on reducing tariffs, increasing agricultural purchases, and addressing export controls. However, the likelihood of significant progress remains low. The release of Jimmy Lai's father from detention by Beijing was reported to be a result of Trump's advocacy, though hopes for widespread release remain unfulfilled.

Trump has emphasized the spectacle of the summit, hosting a grand state dinner and ensuring the White House helipad's readiness. The construction of a $400 million ballroom, meant to surpass Beijing's Great Hall of the People, remains incomplete. During his last visit to Beijing, Trump praised Xi, but Xi warned of potential conflict over Taiwan, a sensitive issue for both nations.

An announcement of future summits, possibly with Russian President Vladimir Putin, is another potential outcome of the meeting. Trump has also invited Xi to the G20 summit in December at his Doral resort in Miami.