BEIJING (Agencies) – Donald Trump and Xi Jinping wrapped up high-level talks in Beijing on Friday, highlighting progress in stabilising relations between the United States and China despite deep-rooted disagreements.
The three-day visit ended with both leaders striking an optimistic tone, describing the engagement as constructive while acknowledging unresolved disputes on key geopolitical and economic issues.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said he had yet to decide whether to proceed with a major arms sale to Taiwan, a move strongly opposed by Beijing and considered a sensitive issue in bilateral ties.
Trump added that Xi reiterated China’s opposition to Taiwan’s independence, while the US position remained unchanged, leaving the matter unresolved.
The US president also said he discussed the possibility of a trilateral nuclear agreement involving the United States, China and Russia aimed at limiting nuclear arsenals. He described China’s response as “positive”, although Beijing has previously shown limited interest in such arrangements.
The summit concluded with a final meeting at Zhongnanhai, China’s leadership compound, where the two leaders held extended discussions over tea and lunch. Xi described the visit as a “milestone”, saying both sides had worked towards building a stable and constructive relationship.
Despite the diplomatic optimism, significant challenges remain. Differences over Taiwan continue to dominate the agenda, with Chinese officials warning that mishandling the issue could lead to serious conflict.
Tensions also persist over Iran, with Washington urging Beijing to play a greater role in addressing the ongoing crisis, while raising concerns about Chinese firms’ alleged links to Tehran.
The leaders, however, found some common ground on global energy concerns, agreeing on the importance of reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil supplies disrupted by conflict.
On trade, Trump hinted at potential agreements, including possible Chinese purchases of US agricultural goods and aircraft, though no formal announcements were made.
The visit concluded with ceremonial farewells in Beijing, underscoring both the symbolic warmth and underlying complexity of ties between the world’s two largest economies.
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