Xi says China, US should be 'partners rather than rivals'

Chinese President Xi Jinping advocated for collaboration with the United States, according to state media in Beijing, shortly after being welcomed by US President Donald Trump in Washington on Wednesday evening. Xi stated in written remarks published by the state news agency Xinhua that "our two countries should be partners rather than rivals."

He added that "the Chinese and US peoples have enjoyed long-standing friendly exchanges, and our interests are deeply intertwined." The comments were made before crucial discussions between Trump and Xi, which are expected to cover trade, technological competition, particularly in artificial intelligence, and Beijing's support for Iran.

Xi expressed his eagerness to "in-depth exchanges with President Trump on major issues concerning our bilateral relations and the global situation," stating that they should work "towards each other to foster a stable relationship characterized by cooperation as the mainstay, competition within bounds, manageable differences, and peaceful prospects."

In a reference to Trump's political slogan, Xi said that "the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation and the goal of making America great again can fully go hand in hand." He expressed confidence that "with the joint efforts of both sides, this visit will yield fruitful results, enhance the well-being of our two peoples and bring new hope for world peace."