RismadarVoice Reporters
May 13, 2026
U.S President, Donald Trump says he will press Chinese President Xi Jinping to expand access for American companies during a high-level summit in Beijing expected to focus on trade, technology, Taiwan, and tensions involving Iran.
Trump departed Washington on Wednesday for the official visit, his first trip to China since 2017, describing Xi as “a leader of extraordinary distinction” while urging China to “open up” further to U.S. businesses.
The U.S. president was accompanied by several top American business leaders, including Elon Musk and Jensen Huang, while other executives such as Tim Cook are also expected in Beijing during the visit.
The summit comes amid efforts by both countries to stabilise relations despite ongoing disagreements over trade policies, artificial intelligence competition, Taiwan, and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
Trump told reporters before departure that he expects to hold lengthy discussions with Xi on Iran, noting that China remains a major buyer of Iranian oil despite U.S. sanctions.
Chinese authorities welcomed the visit, with the country’s foreign ministry stating that Beijing is prepared to “expand cooperation and manage differences” with Washington.
Discussions are also expected to cover rare earth exports, tariffs, and the possible extension of a temporary trade truce previously reached between the two leaders.
Trump additionally indicated he would discuss U.S. arms sales to Taiwan with Xi, a sensitive issue that has long strained relations between both countries.
Security was visibly heightened across Beijing ahead of the summit, with police increasing surveillance around major roads and transport stations.
The meeting is being closely monitored internationally as both nations seek to manage economic and political tensions while maintaining strategic cooperation on global issues.
