Xi Jinping and Trump Discuss Stability in U.S.-China Relations

Chinese President Xi Jinping met with U.S. President Donald Trump today in Busan, South Korea, focusing on the importance of maintaining stability in U.S.-China relations. During their discussions, Xi emphasized that the two nations have managed to sustain a stable partnership due to their mutual leadership, which he described as a historical achievement.

Key Takeaways from the Meeting

Xi noted that while both countries have distinct national circumstances, certain differences are inevitable. He stated, “As the two largest economies in the world, occasional misunderstandings are completely normal.” The Chinese president likened their leadership roles to that of captains navigating through storms, underscoring the need for both leaders to steer their bilateral relations in a stable direction.

During the meeting, Xi highlighted the positive trajectory of the Chinese economy, citing a growth rate of 5.2 percent in the first three quarters of 2023. He expressed confidence in China’s ability to respond to various risks and challenges, describing the economy as a vast sea with substantial size, elasticity, and potential.

Xi also referred to the recent approval of a five-year national economic and social development plan by the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China. He stated, “Over the past 70 years, we have consistently built a comprehensive picture and progressed step by step. We have never sought to provoke conflicts or replace others; instead, we focus on our own development and share opportunities with countries worldwide.”

Prospects for Collaboration

The Chinese leader asserted that China would continue to deepen reforms and expand its opening to the world. He believes this approach will create ample opportunities for cooperation between China and the United States. Notably, Xi mentioned that trade teams from both nations recently concluded a new round of consultations in Kuala Lumpur, where they reached a fundamental consensus on resolving key ongoing issues.

“The two sides should promptly begin implementing the agreed details to bring stability to bilateral relations and the global economy,” Xi said.

He acknowledged challenges faced in recent trade relations but emphasized that trade should serve as a cornerstone and driving force of U.S.-China interactions, rather than a source of conflict.

Trump expressed his honor in meeting with Xi, referring to China as a great nation and Xi as an esteemed leader and longstanding friend. He remarked that the relationship between the U.S. and China has always been strong and is set to improve further in the future. Trump stated, “I hope both China and the United States will have an even more successful future. China is the largest partner of the United States, and together we can achieve many great things in the world.”

Looking ahead, Trump noted that China will host the informal APEC leaders’ meeting in 2026, while the United States will hold the G20 summit. He expressed optimism for the success of both nations in their future endeavors.