Trump calls Xi a friend as China urges partnership instead of rivalry

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping exchanged friendly remarks during a state banquet in Beijing, describing each other positively as the first day of their high-stakes summit came to a close.

Speaking at the banquet, Xi said China and the United States should be “partners, not rivals,” stressing that ties between the world’s two largest economies are too important to fail. He described Trump’s visit as historic and said both countries must work together to maintain stable relations.

Trump responded by calling Xi a “friend” and said discussions between the two leaders had been “extremely positive and constructive.” He added that US-China relations remain among the most important in the world and invited Xi to visit the United States on September 24.

Taiwan Warning Overshadows Positive Talks

Despite the friendly tone, tensions surfaced during closed-door talks lasting more than two hours.

Xi reportedly warned Trump that Taiwan remains the most sensitive issue in China-US relations and said mishandling the matter could push ties into a “dangerous situation” or even lead to conflict. China continues to claim Taiwan as its territory, while Taiwan maintains self-governance and receives US support.

The White House summary of the meeting did not mention Taiwan but focused on trade discussions and energy security.

Strait of Hormuz and Trade Take Center Stage

Both leaders reportedly agreed that the Strait of Hormuz should remain open to ensure the free flow of global energy supplies as concerns over the Iran conflict continue.

Trump also said he plans to encourage China to increase economic cooperation, while US officials suggested major Chinese purchases, including Boeing aircraft, may be announced during the visit.

Oil markets remained relatively stable following the talks, as investors watched for signs of easing geopolitical tensions.