Trump hails ‘very productive’ talks with China’s Xi

President Donald Trump declared the meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping to be "very productive" on Friday. Trump tweeted that "tremendous things will be happening," emphasizing the importance of calling artificial intelligence "super intelligence." The White House summit featured symbolism over substance, with no major breakthroughs in bilateral trade.

However, Trump pointed to progress under a bilateral trade mechanism, citing increased market access for US farmers and ranchers. Both leaders recognized artificial intelligence as an area for cooperation. Following the summit, Trump escorted Xi to the US National Archives, where they were expected to discuss the history and future of their relationship, viewing artifacts such as the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution.

China's President Xi Jinping has long sought to convince Trump to acknowledge the US opposition to Taiwan's independence, in contrast to Washington's stance. Xi urged Trump to handle the Taiwan question cautiously and adhere to the stance of opposing "Taiwan independence." While the United States does not have formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan, it is the island's most important international supporter.

Analysts suggest that Xi may have established a new baseline for US-China relations with Trump, particularly regarding Taiwan. Senate Democrats criticized the summit, stating Trump failed to secure meaningful concessions from Beijing on trade, security, artificial intelligence, or human rights. They also called for immediate delivery of approved military aid and arms sales to Taiwan.