President Donald Trump has announced plans to visit Beijing in April next year, following a recent phone call with Chinese President Xi Jinping, who accepted an invitation to visit the U.S. later in the year.
The conversation, described by Trump as “very good,” covered key issues such as trade, the conflict in Ukraine, fentanyl trafficking, and agricultural trade. Trump posted on Truth Social, “Our relationship with China is extremely strong!”
This dialogue built on the progress made at their meeting last month in Busan, South Korea, where they agreed to ease tariff tensions. The U.S. halved a 20% tariff related to fentanyl imports, though tariffs on Chinese goods remain close to 50%.
China’s official media highlighted the call’s positive tone and stressed the importance of continuing cooperation based on equality and mutual benefit.
Geopolitically, President Xi reiterated that Taiwan’s reunification with China is a vital part of China’s vision for the post-Second World War international order. This claim comes amid rising tensions with Japan, a U.S. ally, which has signalled it may militarily respond if China attacks Taiwan.
Although Taiwan was discussed, Trump did not mention it publicly following the call.
Both leaders seem committed to maintaining diplomatic engagement and resolving economic disputes, underpinning their upcoming visits in 2025.