How did Donald Trump and Xi Jinping resolve differences? Here’s what US President says

3 min read Updated: May 14, 2026 09:58 AM IST President Donald Trump participates in a welcome ceremony with China's President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People, Thursday, May 14, 2026, in Beijing. (AP Photo) Amid spiralling tensions between the two largest economies over trade, Taiwan, and Iran war, US President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping met on Thursday, and high-stakes talks between the two are also scheduled. Despite significant differences on a host of issues, the Presidents of the two countries have worked through them and sorted things out, said Trump. In the first interaction with Xi, during his China trip, Trump said: “You and I have known each other now for a long time. In fact, the longest relationship of our two countries that any President and President has had. And that’s, to me, an honour.” Speaking more about their understanding and the relationship they have shared for years, Trump said, “We’ve had a fantastic relationship. We’ve gotten along. When there were difficulties, we worked it out. I would call you, and you would call me. Whenever we had a problem, we worked it out very quickly, and we’re going to have a fantastic future together…” Xi also acknowledged that he had always believed that the common interests between the two countries had outweighed their differences. So, what are the issues that have plagued the relationship between the two countries in the past year? Reciprocal tariffs: Beginning with Trump’s reciprocal “Liberation Day” tariffs on nearly all US trade partners in April 2025, average tariffs on China went from 34% to a high of 145% within a few days. China countered with 125% tariffs, and by May, both sides opened negotiations with top leaders meeting in Geneva. Tariffs affected the US-China trade deficit (the difference in imports and exports), which stood at $346 billion in 2016 and dropped significantly to $202 billion by 2025. Story continues below this ad China heavily leveraged its dominant position in processing rare earths, which are essential for manufacturing technological goods, to demand concessions. In fact, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng will meet in Seoul before Trump’s visit. Taiwan flashpoint: Rising tensions across the Taiwan Strait do seem partly fuelled by the Trump administration’s mixed signals about its Taipei policy. Last December, the US announced an $11billion arms deal with Taiwan, triggering protests from the Chinese government. Trump, however, has since downplayed the US willingness to defend Taiwan. “He considers it to be a part of China,” Trump said of Xi, adding that “(it’s) up to him, what he’s going to be doing (on Taiwan).” Iran war: With China being the largest buyer of Iranian oil, the conflict in the Middle East — triggered by the US-Israel joint attack on Iran — has increased pressure on Beijing’s economy and energy security. As disruptions in the Gulf have made commercial vessels vulnerable to attacks and delays, China has been urging for a complete cessation of hostilities and opening up of the Strait of Hormuz. The Express Global Desk at indianexpress.com which delivers authoritative, verified, and context-driven coverage of key international developments shaping global politics, policy, and migration trends. The desk focuses on stories with direct relevance for Indian and global audiences, combining breaking news with in-depth explainers and analysis. A major focus area of the desk is US immigration and visa policy, including developments related to student visas, work permits, permanent residency pathways, executive actions, and court rulings. The Global Desk also closely tracks Canada’s immigration, visa, and study policies, covering changes to study permits, post-study work options, permanent residence programmes, and regulatory updates affecting migrants and international students. All reporting from the Global Desk adheres to The Indian Express’ editorial standards, relying on official data, government notifications, court documents, and on-record sources. The desk prioritises clarity, accuracy, and accountability, ensuring readers can navigate complex global systems with confidence. Core Team The Express Global Desk is led by a team of experienced journalists and editors with deep expertise in international affairs and migration policy: Aniruddha Dhar – Senior Assistant Editor with extensive experience in global affairs, international politics, and editorial leadership. Nischai Vats – Deputy Copy Editor specialising in US politics, US visa and immigration policy, and policy-driven international coverage. Mashkoora Khan – Sub-editor focusing on global developments, with a strong emphasis on Canada visa, immigration, and study-related policy coverage. ... Read More Stay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram © IE Online Media Services Pvt Ltd Tags: donald trump Xi Jinping