Xi to begin Washington visit with rare planeside welcome from Trump

When Chinese President Xi Jinping arrives in Washington on Wednesday, he is set to receive a rare greeting from President Donald Trump at Joint Base Andrews, situated just outside the nation's capital. This unprecedented move by Trump to greet Xi at the military base instead of the White House underscores the elevated status accorded to China's leader as he embarks on his first state visit to the U.S. in over a decade.

First lady Melania Trump revealed her husband's decision to personally meet Xi upon his arrival in the Washington area, citing the "great relationship" between the two leaders. In a Fox News Channel interview, Melania Trump emphasized, "He's coming on our soil, and we need to welcome them with the most respect." Although the White House has not disclosed extensive details about the arrival ceremony, it is anticipated that Trump will engage in a formal welcome alongside Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, at the base. The three-day visit is poised to mark a significant milestone in U.S.-China relations.