U.S. President Donald Trump is scheduled to arrive in Beijing on the evening of May 13, ahead of talks with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. The White House Deputy Press Secretary, Anna Kelly, confirmed the itinerary to reporters in Washington.
The official welcoming ceremony and a bilateral meeting between the leaders are set for the morning of May 14. Following these events, Trump will visit the Temple of Heaven and attend an official reception in the evening. On May 15, the two leaders will engage in a tea meeting and working lunch before Trump departs China.
The White House anticipates that this visit will facilitate the establishment of more favorable agreements aimed at restoring the trade balance between the United States and China.
National security topics are expected to include ongoing discussions regarding the U.S.-China Trade Council and the U.S.-China Investment Council. Kelly explained, “The Trade Council will allow the U.S. and China to manage trade between the U.S. government and the Chinese government concerning non-sensitive goods. The Investment Council will provide a governmental forum for discussing investment-related issues.”
Additional agreements concerning various industries, including aerospace, agriculture, and energy, will also be on the agenda. It is likely that President Trump will raise concerns regarding China’s nuclear program.
“I can say that during this administration, there has been no progress on this issue – China’s public statements are consistent with what we have heard through official channels, namely that they are not interested in sitting down to discuss any arms control or similar matters at this time,” a senior administration official stated on condition of anonymity.
Moreover, the leaders will address foreign policy issues, including the conflicts in Iran and tensions surrounding Taiwan. The official added, “Similar to discussions regarding Iran, Russia, and other hotspots, the ongoing dialogue between President Trump and General Secretary Xi Jinping about Taiwan has certainly been a topic of discussion in their recent interactions.”
According to Kelly, Xi Jinping may also visit Washington later this year.
President Trump's upcoming visit to Beijing aims to address trade imbalances and national security issues in discussions with Xi Jinping. Key topics will include trade agreements, investment councils, and foreign policy matters such as Taiwan and Iran.