Xi Begins US State Visit as Trump Plans Airport Welcome

Xi Jinping Arrives in Washington for Three-Day Visit

Chinese President Xi Jinping is visiting Washington from September 23 to 25, 2026, at the invitation of US President Donald Trump. China’s Foreign Ministry said the visit will include discussions on China-US relations as well as broader issues involving peace and development.

Trump Expected to Welcome Xi at Joint Base Andrews

President Donald Trump is expected to personally greet Xi Jinping when the Chinese president arrives at Joint Base Andrews outside Washington. The airport reception is an unusual protocol gesture, as US presidents generally receive visiting heads of state at the White House rather than personally meeting them at the airfield.

Read more :  Saudi Crown Prince and Putin Discuss Maritime Security

Formal Ceremonies Planned at the White House

The airport welcome is expected to begin a three-day programme that includes a formal arrival ceremony at the White House, a military review and a state dinner hosted by Trump and First Lady Melania Trump. Xi is travelling with his wife, Peng Liyuan.

Trade and Artificial Intelligence Among Key Issues

The visit comes as Washington and Beijing continue to manage disagreements over trade, advanced technology and artificial intelligence. US and Chinese officials are also dealing with economic issues involving tariffs, technology restrictions and critical supply chains.

Taiwan and Regional Security Remain Important

Taiwan is another significant issue in the relationship. Reuters reported that Xi is expected to raise US arms sales to Taiwan during his Washington visit, while US policy toward Taiwan remains an important point of disagreement between Washington and Beijing.

Technology Leaders Expected at State Dinner

The White House state dinner is expected to bring together senior figures from the technology and business sectors. Reported guests include leaders from companies such as Nvidia, Apple, Amazon, Alphabet, Tesla and other major technology and financial firms.

Xi and Trump to Continue High-Level Dialogue

The Washington visit represents another high-level meeting between the leaders of the world's two largest economies. Both governments have described dialogue and cooperation as important while continuing to manage disagreements over trade, technology, Taiwan and other international issues.