Pat on the back? Xi and Trump’s body language speaks volumes
Arm touches, laughs, and firm handshakes were on display as Chinese President Xi Jinping and his American counterpart Donald Trump began their high-stakes summit in Washington, which has so far featured a rare airport welcome, military pageantry and closed-door bilateral talks. While the outcomes of the pair’s discussions are being closely watched, so are the exchanges between the leaders of the…
Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump exchanged body language signals during their high-stakes summit in Washington. Body language expert Patti Wood analyzed their interactions and noted Trump's gestures appeared to assert dominance, while Xi remained formal but comfortable. Xi's shoulder stance and walking style were normal for him, indicating no change from his typical demeanor in formal visits.
Trump's downward-tilted chin while walking towards Xi projected less authority than a chin-up stance. During the handshake, Trump patted Xi on the upper arm, which projects hierarchy and symbolically says "I am better" than you. Xi reciprocated by patting Trump on the back, a gesture that may have been a way to neutralize the perceived dominance.
Trump also walked Xi along the White House colonnade and stopped at the Presidential Walk of Fame, where they looked at framed pictures. Trump pointed to his own portrait, then to former President Joe Biden's place, fueling claims that an autopen, rather than Biden, was effectively running the presidency. The two first ladies, Melania Trump and Peng Liyuan, were observed having a relaxed moment away from the formalities of their husbands' meeting, smiling and gazing at each other.
Written by urgent.news from Reuters Business via SCMP's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
