Xi hails new era in US-China relations, but warns Trump on Taiwan

Chinese President Xi Jinping hailed the US-China relationship as the 'world’s most consequential' during a summit with President Donald Trump, stating they must 'make it work and never mess it up.' Xi warned that Taiwan remains the 'most important issue' in bilateral relations, risking a 'very dangerous situation' if not handled properly. The leaders also agreed to ensure the Strait of Hormuz stays open, addressing global energy trade concerns. Trump arrived in Beijing with a delegation of US business leaders, including Apple CEO Tim Cook and Tesla’s Elon Musk, who were presented as part of a 'caravan of CEOs' to 'pay respects' to China. Xi used the occasion to reinforce China’s image as a major global power equal to the US, leveraging the high-profile visit for domestic and international optics. During a state banquet, Trump called the discussions 'extremely positive and productive,' framing the US-China relationship as 'one of the most consequential in world history.' He referenced historical ties, from early American trade with China to modern cultural exchanges like basketball and Chinese restaurants in the US. The meeting underscored Beijing’s efforts to project itself as a stable alternative to US leadership on the global stage. Xi’s emphasis on Taiwan and the Strait of Hormuz highlighted key flashpoints, while Trump’s inclusion of corporate leaders signaled economic cooperation as a priority. Analysts noted the symbolic value of the summit, with Xi using the event to counter perceptions of China as a secondary power. The optics—including a red-carpet welcome and a delegation of top CEOs—served both domestic and foreign audiences, reinforcing China’s growing influence. The discussions also touched on broader geopolitical tensions, including the impact of conflicts like Iran’s regional disputes on global trade. Trump’s remarks praised Xi as a 'great leader,' further solidifying the narrative of a balanced partnership between the two nations.