Trump gives Xi rare airport welcome as Chinese president begins US state visit

Washington, USA, September 24, 2026 — US President Donald Trump personally welcomed Chinese President Xi Jinping at Joint Base Andrews on Wednesday as Xi began a three-day state visit to the United States amid tensions over trade, technology, Taiwan and Iran.

Trump and First Lady Melania Trump greeted Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, on the tarmac after the Chinese president arrived at the Maryland military base near Washington. The leaders shook hands and spoke briefly as a military band played and ceremonial honors were given.

Trump’s decision to greet Xi personally at Joint Base Andrews was a departure from the usual protocol. Reuters reported that it was the first time in 11 years that a US president had welcomed a foreign leader at the base.

The visit, scheduled from September 23 to 25, is Xi’s first trip to the United States in nearly three years and his first state visit to Washington in more than a decade. The White House said Trump and Melania Trump would host Xi and Peng at the White House on Thursday for an official state arrival ceremony and a state dinner.

Trade is among the major issues facing the two countries. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the United States and China had agreed to extend their existing trade truce, which had been due to expire on November 10, until January 10.

The two sides also face differences over Taiwan, rare-earth minerals, technology and other issues. Xi is expected to press China’s position on Taiwan, while the United States is expected to maintain its position on export controls.