Beijing: Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump have agreed to bolster communication and coordination on global and regional issues amidst the ongoing conflict in Iran, as announced by China on Friday. This development comes during Trump's visit to China, marking the first visit by a U.S. president since 2017.
According to Anadolu Agency, the two leaders engaged in an "in-depth exchange of views" on significant matters impacting both nations and the global community, resulting in a series of "new common understandings." This interaction occurred as part of Trump's itinerary, which included a welcome ceremony, a banquet, and a visit to the Temple of Heaven on Thursday.
Xi and Trump outlined a "new vision" aimed at constructing a stable and strategically guided China-U.S. relationship over the next three years and beyond. This vision is expected to foster the steady and sustainable development of bilateral relations, contributing to global peace and prosperity, as articulated by a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson.
The discussions also focused on addressing mutual concerns "in a proper manner," highlighting the importance of constructive dialogue. The interactions between Xi and Trump have reportedly enhanced "mutual understanding," deepened trust, and advanced cooperation, providing much-needed stability in an uncertain global landscape.
In a notable statement, Trump claimed that Xi assured him of China's decision not to supply military equipment to Iran and expressed support for maintaining open navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. "He said he's not going to give military equipment. That's a big statement," Trump remarked.
Following the formal engagements, Xi hosted Trump for a bilateral tea session and a working lunch. Trump is expected to depart Beijing after these events.
The backdrop of this diplomatic engagement is the escalating Middle East conflict, initiated by U.S. and Israeli military actions against Iran on February 28, which led to retaliatory strikes and a temporary closure of the Strait of Hormuz. An indefinite ceasefire is currently in place.