Trump hosts Xi Jinping with grand ceremony as trade truce extended

US President Donald Trump welcomed Chinese President Xi Jinping with a grand ceremony at Joint Base Andrews on Wednesday, marking the start of a three-day state visit, as top officials agreed to extend the trade truce until January. Treasury Secretary Bessent announced the truce, which includes commitments to reduce tariffs and avoid new trade restrictions, though he expressed uncertainty about reaching a broader deal. Upcoming summits in China and Florida may offer further negotiation opportunities. Xi stated China and the US "must be partners, not rivals," while some Republicans criticized the lavish reception. The visit includes an official banquet, Oval Office talks, and a state dinner, concluding Friday with a White House tea and a visit to the National Archives.