Trump Seeks Broader US Business Access in Talks With Xi
US President Donald Trump stated he would request Xi Jinping to "open up" China to US companies as he traveled to Beijing on Wednesday for a crucial summit that will also address the Iran conflict.
In a demonstration of Trump's business emphasis, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang boarded Air Force One during an Alaskan layover, accompanied by Tesla's Elon Musk, who was also on the presidential aircraft to China.
"I will request President Xi, a leader of remarkable excellence, to 'open up' China so these talented individuals can showcase their abilities and elevate the People's Republic to an even greater status!" Trump posted on social media after leaving Washington.
Many other leading CEOs, such as Tim Cook from Apple, will also be in Beijing for the visit, marking the first time in almost ten years that a US president has traveled to China.
Nevertheless, Trump’s desire to increase trade will face challenges due to political tensions regarding Taiwan and the conflict in the Middle East, which has already postponed the visit from March.
Upon leaving the White House, Trump mentioned he anticipated a "lengthy discussion" with Xi regarding Iran, which exports the majority of its US-sanctioned oil to China. However, he also minimized differences, informing reporters that "I don't believe we need any assistance with Iran" from China and that Xi had been "fairly good" regarding the issue.
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Beijing is becoming impatient for peace, as China's foreign minister on Tuesday urged his Pakistani counterpart to intensify mediation efforts between the United States and Iran.
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This week's journey — the first since Trump went to Beijing in 2017 — will feature eagerly awaited discussions with Xi on Thursday and Friday, along with extravagant displays and ceremonies. The full schedule features a state banquet in the Great Hall of the People in Beijing and a tea gathering.
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On Monday, Trump indicated he would discuss US arms sales to Taiwan with Xi, a self-governing democracy claimed by China -- diverging from the long-standing US position of not consulting Beijing on its backing for the island. The leaders of the world's two largest economies are also expected to address China's restrictions on rare earth exports, AI competition, and the tumultuous trade relationship between the countries.