Trump-Xi Talks: 7 Key Issues Shaping US-China Relations

President Xi Jinping's three-day US state visit began Wednesday with President Trump personally welcoming him at Joint Base Andrews, ahead of formal talks Thursday covering tariffs, rare earths, technology, Taiwan, and Iran. The fragile tariff truce expires November 10, with Trump seeking Chinese purchases of agricultural goods and Boeing aircraft, while Beijing wants stability and relief from tech restrictions. China's dominance in rare-earth processing gives it leverage, and AI competition complicates potential cooperation on safety mechanisms. Taiwan remains the most sensitive issue, with both sides likely reaffirming existing positions. Iran adds pressure as Washington seeks Chinese cooperation on sanctions. The elaborate welcome signals both nations aim to manage competition through guardrails rather than confrontation, though no end to strategic rivalry is expected.