US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are preparing for a high-profile White House summit on September 24. The meeting is expected to cover trade, artificial intelligence, Iran, Taiwan and other major areas of tension between the two countries.
The White House has been preparing for Xi’s visit with a military honor guard rehearsal and preparations for a formal welcome. A new helicopter landing pad on the South Lawn is also ready, adding to the ceremony planned around the Chinese president’s visit.
However, expectations for major breakthroughs remain limited. Several experts cited by AFP said the two leaders may focus more on maintaining their current dialogue than announcing major agreements.
Trade and AI Top the Agenda
The Trump Xi summit comes as Washington and Beijing continue to compete over artificial intelligence. Both countries are seeking an advantage in the technology, while concerns about AI safety and regulation are growing worldwide.
Any agreement on slowing AI development or creating joint regulations could attract major attention. However, Wang Dong, a professor at Peking University, said major AI agreements remain politically difficult for both governments.
Trade is another central issue. The world’s two largest economies continue to deal with the effects of US tariffs and China’s response. Yue Su of the Economist Intelligence Unit told AFP that there could be room for progress on tariffs, agricultural purchases and selected export controls.
The discussions could also include Iran. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is expected to hold talks with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng before the summit. Iran-related sanctions are expected to be among the issues discussed.
Taiwan and Iran Add Pressure
Taiwan remains one of the most sensitive issues in US-China relations. Beijing claims sovereignty over Taiwan, while Washington maintains close unofficial relations with Taipei and provides defensive support.
The issue featured during Trump’s previous meeting with Xi in Beijing. Trump praised his Chinese counterpart during that visit, while Xi warned about the possibility of conflict over Taiwan, according to the supplied report.
Iran could create another source of tension. China has sought to maintain its economic relationship with Tehran while facing pressure from US sanctions. Reports have also alleged that Beijing provided intelligence to Iran before a strike on US troops, although such claims require careful attribution.
The summit may also touch on the case of Jimmy Lai, the jailed Hong Kong media entrepreneur. Lai’s son has appealed to Xi for his father’s release. Trump previously said he had discussed Lai’s situation with Xi.
White House Ceremony Draws Attention
Beyond policy discussions, the summit is expected to carry significant political symbolism. Trump has placed considerable emphasis on the ceremony surrounding Xi’s visit.
The Chinese president is expected to receive a formal welcome and attend a state dinner at the White House. Military personnel have been rehearsing for the event, while the new South Lawn helicopter pad was prepared ahead of the visit.
Trump had also hoped his new White House ballroom would be completed in time. The project, reportedly costing about $400 million, is still under construction.
Former US Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell described the event as more focused on public presentation than substantive negotiations. His assessment reflects concerns that the summit could produce symbolism without resolving the biggest disputes between Washington and Beijing.
More Meetings Could Follow
Even without major agreements, the Trump Xi summit could establish a timetable for further talks.
Trump and Xi are expected to meet again in November at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum in Shenzhen, China. The Kremlin has also suggested the possibility of a three-way meeting involving Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Trump is additionally expected to invite Xi to the G20 summit in December at his Doral resort in Miami.
For now, the White House preparations underline the importance of the meeting. Yet the biggest questions remain whether Trump and Xi can reduce tensions over trade, technology, Taiwan and Iran while keeping communication between the two powers open.
