How much did Trump and Xi resolve in their ‘warm’ meeting?

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping attended a lavish state dinner at the White House. During the event, they exchanged warm remarks. However, they gave little indication of progress on several key issues.

Xi stressed that the two countries must ensure that AI remains “under human control” and that they act “as responsible major countries.” Trump, meanwhile, expressed hope for a future filled with “harmony, peace and success” for both countries.

However, tensions between the two countries remained beneath the diplomatic courtesies. These include the issue of Taiwan. Earlier in the day, Xi urged Trump to take the “right position” on the self-governed island that Beijing claims as part of its territory. A major arms package that Trump had put on hold was also discussed.

Guests at the dinner included billionaire businesspeople, Trump administration officials and chief executives from the US technology sector.

Protesters chanted slogans outside as the guests arrived. Several people were also arrested.

Speaking to guests on Thursday night, Trump thanked Xi for traveling a long way to the United States. He also described the relationship between the two leaders as strong.

Trump said, “We have never gotten along better than we do now.”

He praised the long history of US China relations. However, he briefly moved away from the subject of his speech to praise the ongoing ballroom construction project.

Speaking informally, Trump said the Chinese leader and his wife should be the first to enter the ballroom as a “special gift.” However, construction of the ballroom is still about a year from completion.

He said, “It would be our honor to let you enter if you want to enter a beautiful, clean and sparkling construction site.”

Trump also gave Xi a sculpture of the bald eagle, the national symbol of the United States. He said it represented “America’s free and soaring spirit.”

He said, “We hope it will find a beautiful and wonderful place in Beijing. It is an honor for you.”

Trump also said he and First Lady Melania Trump had taken part in designing the sculpture.

Xi, meanwhile, thanked the hosts for welcoming him and his wife “with great care and consideration.” He said this made them feel “truly at home.”

Xi said the two leaders were “making history in bilateral relations.”

He said, “We have agreed to build a constructive China US relationship based on strategic stability.” He also said the two leaders had held “candid and in-depth exchanges” that would further strengthen relations between the two countries.