Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for cooperation with the United States, according to Beijing’s state media, just hours after being welcomed in Washington by US President Donald Trump on Wednesday evening local time.
“Our two countries should be partners rather than rivals,” Xi said in written remarks published by the Xinhua news agency. He noted that the peoples of China and the United States have long enjoyed friendly exchanges and that their interests are closely connected.
The comments came ahead of high‑profile talks between Trump and Xi, who shook hands on a red carpet after the Chinese leader’s arrival in the US capital, AFP reports.
Key issues expected to dominate discussions include trade, technological competition — particularly in artificial intelligence — and Beijing’s diplomatic and economic support for Iran.
Xi said he looked forward to “in‑depth exchanges with President Trump on major issues concerning our bilateral relations and the global situation,” Xinhua reported. He added that the two countries should work toward a relationship defined by cooperation, competition kept within limits, manageable differences and peaceful prospects.
In a symbolic nod to Trump’s political slogan, Xi remarked that “the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation and the goal of making America great again can fully go hand in hand.” He said both sides should chart a constructive path for two major powers to coexist.
“I am confident we can achieve this,” Xi said, adding that with joint efforts, his visit would yield positive results, improve the well‑being of both peoples and bring new hope for global peace.
