Success of Trump-Xi summit lies in what happens afterwards

The upcoming Trump-Xi summit in Washington this week is seen as a critical test for the commitment to building a "constructive China-US relationship of strategic stability." The meeting will face significant challenges, with key areas of disagreement including trade, technology, industrial policy, Taiwan, and regional security. While the US prioritizes tariff reductions, increased Chinese purchases of agricultural and energy products, reliable access to critical minerals, and new commercial contracts, China seeks greater consistency in US policy, particularly regarding Taiwan, technology restrictions, and trade measures.

A phased agreement that rests on reciprocity and addresses major concerns for both sides could offer an opportunity, with trade providing the most immediate potential for progress. However, the lasting value of any agreement will hinge on implementation, requiring clear timetables, working-level channels, and procedures to manage disagreements.

Taiwan remains a highly sensitive issue, with China viewing it as a core interest and some US allies expressing concern about possible changes in Washington's language. The South China Sea disputes also demand caution due to the increasing risk of direct confrontation between Washington and Beijing. Lastly, artificial intelligence should be a key topic in the talks, as both nations continue to compete over advanced chips, export controls, technical standards, and industrial capabilities.

Brief written by urgent.news from South China Morning Post's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.