Xi-Trump banquet: from flasks to US tech titans in attendance, here’s everything you missed

The recent White House state dinner held between President Xi Jinping and President Donald Trump featured a diverse group of attendees, including key US tech titans. The dinner served as a platform to discuss technology's role in shaping the relationship between the two nations.

During the evening's entertainment, American tenor Christopher Macchio performed, adding to the cultural exchange. The menu included culinary diplomacy, with sparkling wine representing a significant moment in Sino-US relations, and a nod to "ping-pong diplomacy," a historic sports initiative fostering goodwill between the two countries.

Interestingly, both Chinese President Xi Jinping and his first lady, Peng Liyuan, brought their own vacuum flasks to the banquet, showcasing their dedication to maintaining their personal hygiene amidst the formal setting. The flasks, a unique addition to the event, added a touch of novelty to the otherwise traditional atmosphere.

Zhou Hongxu, Xi's security chief, was among the rising Chinese officials present at the White House banquet, signaling the ongoing importance of security in intergovernmental relations. The event also provided a stage for US business leaders to interact with top Chinese officials, further emphasizing the focus on technology and economic cooperation.

President Xi Jinping addressed the assembled guests, emphasizing a friendship "forged in blood" during his remarks. The discussions at the dinner aimed to strengthen the bilateral ties between the two superpowers, with both leaders committed to fostering cooperation in various sectors. As the state dinner concluded, it marked a significant milestone in the evolving relationship between China and the United States.