President Donald Trump used the Trump Xi state dinner at the White House on September 24 to emphasize his relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping and a desire for more stable US-China ties. Their state visit also focused on trade, artificial intelligence, Taiwan and wider security issues.
US-China ties take center stage
During his state dinner remarks, Trump said the United States and China represent different political systems but argued that ties between their people remain important. He told guests that the two sides had “never gotten along better,” while again describing his relationship with Xi in positive terms.
The dinner followed a full day of official events at the White House. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump welcomed Xi and Peng Liyuan for a formal arrival ceremony, military demonstrations and bilateral discussions. The White House said the visit marked more than a decade since Xi and Peng’s previous White House visit.
Xi calls for peaceful coexistence
Xi used his public remarks to call for stronger communication and what he described as peaceful coexistence between the world’s two largest economies. He said China and the United States could benefit from cooperation while warning that confrontation would hurt both countries.
Xi also called for continued dialogue between government agencies and military officials, while arguing that competition between Washington and Beijing should remain controlled. His remarks reflected Beijing’s effort to stabilize the relationship even as significant strategic disagreements remain.
Trade and AI remain major issues
The leaders met against a backdrop of continuing competition over tariffs, advanced technology and artificial intelligence. Taiwan and the war involving Iran were also among the major geopolitical issues surrounding the visit.
Both countries are seeking advantages in AI while maintaining restrictions and policies designed to protect sensitive technologies. Xi said China and the United States have a responsibility to ensure AI remains under human control, while Trump has repeatedly emphasized maintaining US leadership in advanced technology.
White House ballroom draws attention
Trump briefly moved away from his prepared diplomatic remarks to discuss the White House ballroom currently under construction. He suggested Xi and Peng could be among the first guests to enter the completed space and joked about showing guests the construction site.
The lighter moment came during an elaborate state dinner featuring American ingredients with Chinese influences. The White House said the evening’s décor used red flowers and design elements intended to blend Chinese cultural references with American traditions.
State visit continues with final events
Xi’s visit concludes on September 25. According to the White House schedule, Trump and Melania Trump are set to host Xi and Peng for tea before the two couples visit the National Archives to view records connected to the history of US-China relations.
The visit has produced strong diplomatic symbolism, but major disagreements remain over technology, trade and security. The central question after the ceremonies is whether the warmer personal tone between Trump and Xi results in durable progress on those disputes.
