Xi Jinping Begins US State Visit as Trump Seeks to Strengthen China Ties

WASHINGTON — Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in the United States on Wednesday for a three-day state visit, where he is expected to hold talks with US President Donald Trump on trade, technology, artificial intelligence and other areas of bilateral and international concern.

Trump is expected to personally welcome Xi at Joint Base Andrews, an unusually high-profile reception that will begin a visit featuring a formal arrival ceremony and a state dinner at the White House on Thursday. Xi is accompanied by his wife, Peng Liyuan, senior Chinese official Cai Qi and Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

The visit comes amid continuing tensions between Washington and Beijing over trade, technology restrictions, artificial intelligence, Taiwan and broader geopolitical issues. At the same time, both governments have sought to maintain dialogue and prevent disagreements from escalating.

Trade is expected to be a major issue. The two countries agreed earlier this year on a framework aimed at reducing tariffs and expanding commercial exchanges, including a proposed Board of Trade and reciprocal tariff reductions covering $30 billion in goods in each direction. Progress on several commitments, however, has remained uneven.

China had also pledged to increase purchases of US agricultural products and to buy 200 Boeing aircraft, although the aircraft orders have yet to materialize. US and Chinese officials are continuing discussions on barriers affecting agricultural and industrial trade.

Artificial intelligence is another emerging area of discussion. Both countries are seeking technological advantages while also facing concerns over the potential misuse of advanced AI systems. US officials have proposed establishing a communication mechanism for AI-related incidents that could have national-security implications.

The talks are also expected to address wider strategic issues, including Taiwan and the war in Iran. The United States and China have significant differences over regional security and military affairs, while Beijing has sought greater dialogue with Washington to manage bilateral tensions.

The visit marks Xi’s first state visit to the United States in more than a decade and follows Trump’s visit to China earlier this year. Chinese officials have described the visit as an opportunity to enhance dialogue, manage differences and expand cooperation between the two countries.

Despite the high-profile diplomatic ceremonies surrounding the visit, major differences remain between Washington and Beijing. The meetings are therefore expected to focus on maintaining communication and advancing specific areas of cooperation while addressing unresolved disputes over trade, technology and security.