Xi-Trump summit boosts China's global image at home

Chinese state media and the public have reacted positively to President Xi Jinping's recent visit to Washington, viewing the elaborate U.S. reception as a sign of China's elevated global status. The summit coverage dominated domestic news, with many citizens expressing pride in their country's perceived power. President Trump's rare airport welcome for Xi and his wife, along with bilateral and cultural events, were praised across Chinese media and social platforms. The official People's Daily dedicated its entire front page to the trip, while Baidu's top search topics included the talks, the state dinner, and Xi's Mid-Autumn Festival greetings. Chinese citizens interviewed by the Associated Press said the summit signaled improved relations, citing cooperation on trade, artificial intelligence, and security, and a less confrontational approach to Taiwan. Xi urged Trump to oppose Taiwan's independence, though Trump made no immediate public comment on the matter.