Xi Jinping arrives in Washington as Trump gives rare airport welcome to kick off US state visit

Chinese President Xi Jinping landed in Washington on Wednesday to commence a three-day state visit, beginning with a unique welcome from US President Donald Trump. The welcome occurred at Joint Base Andrews, where Trump personally greeted Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, marking a rare instance where a US president personally greets a visiting foreign leader at the airport.

This gesture is expected to set the tone for the visit, which is Xi's first to Washington in over a decade, despite ongoing tensions between the two nations on various fronts such as trade, artificial intelligence, Iran, and Taiwan. The three-day itinerary is slated to blend high-level diplomatic talks with ceremonial events, culminating in a state dinner at the White House on Thursday.

Trump's decision to personally greet Xi at the air base, rather than waiting at the White House, signals a personal and respectful overture. Melania Trump, who also personally greeted her husband, emphasized the importance of this gesture, stating that "we need to welcome them with the most respect." The visit is expected to address critical issues like trade disagreements, AI advancements, Iran's conflicts, and potential standoffs over Taiwan's sovereignty.

However, experts warn that major breakthroughs are unlikely. Critics in the US, including Republican Senator Roger Wicker, have criticized the lavish welcome, suggesting that Trump should not have invited Xi given the numerous contentious issues. In response, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio advocated for continued high-level engagement, highlighting the economic and military power of both nations.

The visit will also involve cultural exchanges, with Melania and Peng scheduled to visit the Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art.