Xi urges cooperation as Trump visits Beijing for summit talks

Chinese President Xi Jinping told US President Donald Trump that Beijing and Washington should strengthen cooperation rather than deepen rivalry as the two leaders opened high-level talks in the Chinese capital. Speaking at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, Xi said stable China-US relations were essential for global economic and political stability at a time of rising geopolitical uncertainty.

Trade and diplomacy dominate summit agenda

Xi said China and the United States benefit more from partnership than confrontation, stressing that both countries carry major responsibilities in global affairs. He described the current international climate as increasingly unstable and said major powers must work together to reduce tensions and address shared challenges, including trade disputes, regional conflicts and energy security.

The Chinese leader also pointed to recent progress in bilateral economic negotiations, describing the latest discussions between trade officials as constructive. According to Chinese state media, Xi emphasized that commercial ties between the world’s two largest economies remain mutually beneficial despite years of tariff disputes and strategic competition.

Middle East tensions remain central

The ongoing Middle East crisis and the fragile ceasefire involving Iran were among the key topics discussed during the summit. The conflict, which escalated after US and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets earlier this year, disrupted shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz and increased pressure on global energy markets, including import-dependent economies.

China has repeatedly advocated diplomatic engagement and dialogue in the region, while Washington has accused Beijing of maintaining economic and strategic links that help sustain Iran’s energy sector. The prolonged ceasefire currently in place has eased immediate concerns over oil supplies, but uncertainty continues across international markets.

Business leaders join Trump delegation

Trump arrived in Beijing accompanied by senior administration officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, as well as executives from major American corporations spanning technology, finance, manufacturing and aviation sectors. The presence of leading business figures highlighted the importance of trade and investment ties despite ongoing political disagreements between the two powers.

Xi said he hoped the summit would help establish a more stable direction for bilateral relations and create momentum for broader cooperation in the coming years. He added that both governments should seek long-term solutions capable of reducing tensions and strengthening international stability.