On Thursday, US President Donald Trump met with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, marking the start of two days of high-level talks. The meeting featured an elaborate welcome ceremony, including a red-carpet reception and performances by students. Discussions are set to cover critical issues such as trade, Taiwan, and Iran, amid a backdrop of strained global geopolitics. The White House indicated that Trump aims to secure commitments from China to increase purchases of US agricultural goods, including soybeans and beef, and to establish a formal trade mechanism for managing bilateral disputes. However, there have been no signals of major agreements emerging from the talks. The meeting also comes as tensions rise over Iran, with China facing pressure from the US to play a more active role in addressing the crisis. Additionally, the issue of Taiwan remains contentious, particularly following the US approval of an $11 billion arms package for the island. Trump's delegation includes senior officials and business leaders, highlighting the economic focus of the visit, which will also feature further ceremonial engagements.