On Thursday, President Donald Trump formally invited Chinese President Xi Jinping to visit the United States for a state visit at the White House on September 24, 2026, according to an announcement from the White House on its official X account.
The invitation, which also includes Xi's wife, Peng Liyuan, is intended as a reciprocal gesture following the hospitality Trump received during his state visit to Beijing, which is taking place from May 13 to 15.
During an official banquet held in the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, the American leader addressed the Chinese delegation.
"Today has been truly remarkable, and I want to especially thank President Xi, my friend, for this outstanding welcome. It was indeed a welcome like no other, and for hosting us so generously during this historic state visit," Trump remarked during the banquet.
Productive Talks and Cultural Exchanges
The U.S. President described the day's discussions as "extremely positive and productive," referring to the experience as another valuable chance to converse with friends about mutual interests, beneficial to both the United States and China.
Thursday's events included a formal welcoming ceremony with a 21-gun salute, a bilateral meeting lasting approximately two and a half hours, a cultural visit to the Temple of Heaven, and the state banquet.
After the bilateral meeting, Trump emphasized, "The relationship between China and the U.S. is going to be better than ever."
Calls for Partnership Amidst Tension Over Taiwan
On his part, Xi Jinping urged Washington to "be partners, not rivals," stating that "the common interests between China and the U.S. outweigh their differences."
However, Xi also issued a caution regarding Taiwan, warning that tensions concerning the island could lead to "an extremely dangerous situation."
This marks Trump's first visit to China as a sitting U.S. president in nearly nine years and his first since November 2017.
High-Profile U.S. Delegation in Beijing
The U.S. delegation included Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent, and notable business leaders Elon Musk (Tesla), Tim Cook (Apple), and Jensen Huang (Nvidia).
Regarding the business group, Trump was candid: "I didn't want the second or third in command, I wanted only the best, and they are here today to pay their respects to you and China."
The summit is part of an ongoing process of easing tensions following the commercial truce agreed upon in Busan, South Korea, on October 30, 2025, which halted tariffs that had risen to 145% from Washington and 125% from Beijing.
A working lunch between the two leaders is scheduled for Friday before Trump's return to the United States, possibly resulting in new agreements before the visit concludes.
Key Aspects of Trump's Invitation to Xi Jinping
What is the purpose of Xi Jinping's invitation to the U.S.?
The invitation serves as a reciprocal gesture following the hospitality President Trump experienced during his state visit to Beijing.
What topics were discussed during the bilateral meeting?
The discussions were described as extremely positive and productive, focusing on mutual interests beneficial to both the United States and China.
Who accompanied President Trump on this visit?
The U.S. delegation included key figures such as Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and notable business leaders like Elon Musk, Tim Cook, and Jensen Huang.