Trump hails 'truly great friendship' with Xi as Chinese leader begins state visit

President Donald Trump expressed his admiration for the "truly great friendship" he shares with Chinese President Xi Jinping as the latter commenced his state visit to the United States. Despite the presence of numerous contentious issues to address between the two nations, Trump emphasized their longstanding and mutually respectful relationship during the opening remarks before commencing formal talks.

"From the time of my first election in 2016, President Xi and I have forged a friendship, a truly great friendship, actually, built on mutual respect and the vital interests of our people," Trump stated.

The two world leaders are expected to discuss a range of complex topics during their private meetings. Xi has previously emphasized a "healthy" level of competition and suggested that Chinese pandas will soon be visiting Atlanta. However, China has rebuffed the Trump administration's calls and economic pressures to exert influence over Iran to reach a deal that would end the ongoing conflict.

Moreover, Xi has been advocating for a permanent cessation of arms sales to Taiwan, as well as a relaxation of export restrictions on advanced technologies.