Beijing: Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday expressed optimism about US President Donald Trump's visit to Beijing, stating that it will "enhance mutual understanding and trust."

According to Anadolu Agency, Xi described Trump's three-day visit, which is the first by a US president in nine years, as a "historic and landmark" occasion. He emphasized that both nations have set a new vision for building a constructive China-U.S. relationship characterized by strategic stability, as reported by Xinhua.

Xi highlighted the progress made in reaching common understandings on maintaining stable economic and trade ties, expanding practical cooperation, and addressing each other's concerns effectively. The two leaders also agreed to improve communication and coordination on international and regional issues, with Xi noting that Trump's visit was beneficial for enhancing mutual understanding, deepening trust, and improving the well-being of both nations' peoples.

Furthermore, Xi stated that the visit demonstrates the potential for peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation between China and the US, which aligns with the expectations of people from both countries and the international community. He encouraged both sides to implement the consensus reached, preserve the positive momentum, navigate challenges, and promote stable bilateral relations.

During the visit, President Xi hosted a welcome ceremony and banquet for President Trump. The leaders engaged in talks and visited the historic Temple of Heaven. On Friday, they participated in a greeting ceremony and took part in a friendship photo, followed by a bilateral tea session and working lunch. Trump departed Beijing after these events.

This visit occurs amidst a backdrop of ongoing Middle East conflict, initiated by US and Israeli strikes against Iran on February 28, leading to retaliatory actions against Israel and US allies in the Gulf, and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The trip, initially scheduled for the end of March, was postponed due to the Iran war, with Trump arriving in Beijing on Wednesday evening, local time.

Trump's current trip to China marks his first since 2017 during his initial presidential term, underscoring the significance of this diplomatic engagement.