Trump and Xi Meet in Washington, but Major Shift in US-China Relations Unlikely

Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Washington for his first visit in over a decade, meeting with US President Donald Trump on Thursday for their second talks this year, though experts say major shifts in relations are unlikely. The two leaders previously met in Beijing in May, where they agreed to establish new dialogue formats on trade and investment, and China pledged to purchase 200 Boeing aircraft, but core disputes remained unresolved. Xi's three-day state visit comes as the current trade truce expires November 10, with both sides yet to agree on an extension, and Washington seeks to avoid a new conflict ahead of midterm elections. Experts note the relationship remains a fragile balance, with China controlling rare earth metal supplies crucial for electronics and defense, while the US restricts China's access to advanced AI microchips. Both sides are primarily seeking time rather than fundamental change, with analysts suggesting the framing of post-meeting statements may reveal more than any concrete agreements.