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2026 Xi-Trump summits
ChinaDiplomacy

The Xi-Trump summit is over. What comes next in the US-China rivalry?

The US president’s trip to Beijing has been hailed as ‘fantastic’ and ‘historic’ but there are still many known unknowns in ties

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Chinese President Xi Jinping (right) and US President Donald Trump are expected to meet again this year. Photo: AP
Josephine Ma

In the past, the last day of state visits to China has typically featured a deal-signing ceremony presided over by leaders from both sides.

However, the last day of US President Donald Trump’s visit to Beijing was marked by discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping in a more intimate setting and an assurance that both would continue to meet this year.
The two men strolled the gardens of the secluded Zhongnanhai compound, where Communist Party leaders live and work, a rare backdrop for diplomatic activities.

During a photo call after the walk, Xi described Trump’s visit as “historical” and “a landmark”, adding that “important consensus was made on issues both sides are interested in”, according to the Chinese summary.

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Trump’s 2026 trip to China
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