China confirms Xi to visit US this week for Trump talks

Beijing has announced that Chinese President Xi Jinping will journey to the United States this week to engage in discussions with President Donald Trump, according to an official government statement on Monday. Xi's visit is scheduled from Wednesday to Friday. Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun revealed that the two leaders would delve into a comprehensive exchange of perspectives on critical matters concerning China-US relations and global peace and development.

Beijing aims to collaborate with the US to deepen the substance of their strategic partnership, bolster dialogue and cooperation, and address differences appropriately, he added.

Washington had previously disclosed that the leaders of the world's two largest economies were set to meet this week, with the intention of alleviating tensions regarding trade, technology, and broader strategic concerns. Trump himself will extend a warm welcome to Xi at Joint Base Andrews on Wednesday prior to their meetings the following day, a US official confirmed. Notably, Trump previously received China's Vice President during his visit to Beijing in May for a state visit.

The looming trade war between the two nations is a significant concern, and the threat of military confrontation over Taiwan remains a pressing issue. Although both sides have maintained a tariff truce for nearly a year, they have yet to reach a lasting agreement. Vice Premier He Lifeng, China's leading trade negotiator, is currently in the United States for talks with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, focusing on creating a communication channel for AI concerns.

The situation in Iran also weighs heavily on China, as it seeks to avoid US sanctions against countries dealing with Tehran. Despite reports suggesting that Beijing provided intelligence for a strike on US troops, China is keen to maintain a stable relationship with the United States.