Washington, D.C. — US President Donald Trump said Sunday that Chinese President Xi Jinping will visit the White House toward the end of 2026, signaling a potential reset in relations between the world’s two largest economies. The announcement follows a wide-ranging phone conversation between the leaders covering trade, Taiwan, Russia’s war in Ukraine, and Iran.
In an NBC News interview, Trump confirmed the visit while also noting his own planned trip to China in April. “These are the two most powerful countries in the world and we have a very good relationship,” Trump said. “He’s coming to the White House, yeah — toward the end of the year.”
Trade and Economic Ties
Since returning to the White House, Trump has been a prolific user of tariffs, imposing levies on steel, autos, and other goods to achieve policy objectives. The White House and Beijing have clashed over trade but reached a broad truce last spring, even as the U.S. seeks to reduce its dependence on Chinese manufacturing.
Despite these tensions, economic interdependence remains strong. Trump emphasized that the ongoing dialogue with Xi is key to maintaining stability between the nations.
Taiwan and Security Issues
During the conversation, Xi warned Trump to exercise “caution” regarding arms sales to Taiwan, which China claims as its territory. Xi also expressed hope that bilateral issues, including trade, could be resolved amicably. “By tackling issues one by one and continuously building mutual trust, we can forge a right way for the two countries to get along,” Xi said, according to Chinese state broadcaster CCTV.
Trump called the discussion “excellent” and stressed the importance of keeping the relationship positive.
Global Context
The announcement comes as the U.S. seeks to convene three-way talks with Russia and China to establish new limits on nuclear weapons. Beijing has, so far, declined to participate in these disarmament negotiations “at this stage.”
Analysts note that the potential Xi visit to Washington could be a key moment for both countries, offering a platform to smooth tensions from years of trade wars and geopolitical disputes, including issues related to Taiwan, technology transfers, and regional security.
Trump’s administration appears intent on using these high-profile diplomatic meetings to showcase renewed U.S.-China engagement while managing domestic political pressures ahead of the midterm elections.
