United States President, Donald Trump, has departed China following two days of high-level discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping, marking a significant diplomatic engagement between the leaders of the world’s two largest economies.
Trump left Beijing on Friday, boarding Air Force One at Beijing Capital Airport after attending a formal tea session and lunch with Xi during their final day together. The meetings took place at Zhongnanhai, the Chinese leader’s official government complex.
At the airport, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi was present to see the US president off. A ceremonial guard stood in formation near Air Force One, while students waved both American and Chinese flags during the departure ceremony.
Earlier, during a tea meeting with Xi, Trump spoke positively about their personal rapport, describing it as “a very strong one.” He also noted that both leaders shared concerns over Iran, stating they agreed they do not want Iran “to have a nuclear weapon. We want the straits open.”
“We want them to get it ended because it’s a crazy thing there, a little bit crazy. And it’s no good, it can’t happen,” he added.
For his part, Xi welcomed Trump to Zhongnanhai and highlighted the historical importance of the venue, which has housed several of China’s past leaders. He also recalled Trump’s earlier hospitality during his 2017 visit to the Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida.
“I’ve chosen this place especially to reciprocate the hospitality extended to me,” said the Chinese president.
The visit comes against the backdrop of heightened tensions in the Middle East, following military strikes by US and Israeli forces against Iran on February 28. The attacks triggered retaliatory actions from Tehran targeting Israel and US-aligned interests in the Gulf region, as well as the temporary closure of the Strait of Hormuz. An open-ended ceasefire is currently in place.
Beijing has continued to advocate for diplomatic engagement in the region, while Washington has accused China of providing support for Iran’s military and economic capabilities.
Trump arrived in Beijing on Wednesday evening local time for the trip, which was initially scheduled for late March but was postponed due to the conflict involving Iran.
This visit marked the first time in nine years that a sitting US president has traveled to China. Trump last visited Beijing in 2017 during his first term in office.
