Trump greets Xi Jinping at plane side, welcoming the Chinese leader to US soil with an unusual tarmac ceremony that signals high-stakes diplomacy and a fragile trade truce.
A Tarmac Welcome Unlike Any Other
Donald Trump welcomed Xi Jinping on Wednesday evening, taking the unusual step of greeting the Chinese leader on the tarmac at Joint Base Andrews to kick off his state visit to Washington. Xi’s plane was met with a lavish arrival ceremony that included a 100ft long red carpet flanked by US service members, a military flyover by two B-1 bombers and a presentation of the flags and national anthems of both countries.
Find Bleeding Edge Supplements at Scandalous Prices on iHerb.
US presidents typically welcome foreign leaders at the White House, but Trump and first lady Melania Trump traveled to the military base in Maryland, just outside Washington, to personally shake Xi and his wife Peng Liyuan’s hands upon their arrival in the US.
Trade Truce Extended: The Busan Agreement
It came as Scott Bessent, the US Treasury secretary, announced that the US and China agreed on Wednesday to extend the so-called “Busan agreement” – a temporary trade truce between the rival superpowers. Bessent, who met Chinese vice-premier He Lifeng earlier on Wednesday, told Fox News the agreement would be extended until 10 January, two months after it was originally due to expire.
The extension provides temporary relief to global markets that have been rattled by tariff threats and supply chain disruptions. For businesses, the reprieve means tariff hikes are paused at least through the holiday season, though uncertainty remains beyond January.
What Happens at the White House
When Xi arrives at the White House, the Chinese president will receive a 21-gun salute on the South Lawn, private tea with the US president and first lady, and a tour of the National Archives, among other special events. For the world leaders’ second meeting this year, Trump and Xi must confront a range of thorny issues, from technology restrictions to regional security.
Key Takeaways for Business and Policy
- Trade truce extended to 10 January, delaying tariff escalation.
- Symbolic diplomacy at Joint Base Andrews underscores the importance of the visit.
- Markets react to reduced short-term uncertainty but long-term risks remain.
- Key agenda items include tech, agriculture, and national security.
Comparing the Two Leaders’ Approaches
| Factor | Trump Administration | Xi Jinping’s China |
|---|---|---|
| Trade Strategy | Tariff leverage, bilateral deals | State-led investment, retaliatory tariffs |
| Diplomatic Style | Personal, unpredictable gestures | Formal, long-term planning |
| Key Goal | Reduce trade deficit, protect US jobs | Preserve economic growth, global influence |
| Recent Outcome | Busan agreement extension | Busan agreement extension |
FAQ
What is the Busan agreement?
What is the Busan agreement?
The Busan agreement is a temporary trade truce between the US and China that pauses tariff escalations. It was extended on Wednesday until 10 January.
Why did Trump greet Xi at the airport?
Why did Trump greet Xi at the airport?
Trump’s tarmac greeting is a rare gesture of personal diplomacy, signaling the importance of the state visit and the need to stabilize US-China relations.
What issues will Trump and Xi discuss?
What issues will Trump and Xi discuss?
The leaders are expected to cover trade, technology restrictions, regional security, and other bilateral challenges during their meetings at the White House.
Browse the Shop
Acacia frida deluxe solid wood bed frame |
Bedroom bench |
Bed chest drawers |
Lingerie dresser |
Frame base |
Mirror with jewelry storage |
30 Bathroom Vanity |
Memory foam queen mattress |
Mattresses for back pain |
Nightstand set of 2 |
Grand Goldman Shop |
Civil Lawyer
Deutschland Trikot WM 2026
