Beijing: US President Donald Trump arrived Friday morning for a sit-down with Chinese President Xi Jinping at his official residence, marking the final day of the leaders' two-day summit. The White House press pool noted Trump strolling through the Zhongnanhai Garden with Xi as they prepared to take a "friendship photo" before engaging in a bilateral tea and closed-door lunch.

According to Anadolu Agency, Trump praised his relationship with the Chinese president, describing it as "a very strong one." He emphasized their shared stance on preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and maintaining open straits. Trump remarked on the urgency of resolving the situation, stating, "We want them to get it ended because it's a crazy thing there, a little bit crazy. And it's no good, it can't happen."

Xi welcomed Trump by highlighting the historical significance of the Zhongnanhai Palace, a residence for many of his predecessors. He fondly recalled Trump's hospitality during his visit to Mar-a-Lago in 2017, stating, "I've chosen this place especially to reciprocate the hospitality extended to me."

The meetings in Beijing concluded as Trump prepared to depart for the US. Earlier, he expressed in an interview with Fox News that he and Xi maintain a "very good relationship," describing Xi as a "tremendous leader" and appreciating his straightforward approach.

Trump's visit coincides with an ongoing Middle East conflict, following US and Israeli strikes against Iran on February 28. This led to Tehran's retaliation against Israel and US allies in the Gulf, resulting in the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, despite an indefinite ceasefire now in effect. China has urged dialogue in the region, while Washington has accused Beijing of bolstering Iran's military and economic capacities.