Trump and Xi Set for Key Washington Talks as US-China Relations Enter New Phase
Washington — September 20, 2026
US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are preparing for a high-level meeting in Washington this week, with trade, technology and critical minerals expected to dominate discussions.
Xi is scheduled to visit the White House on September 24. US officials say Trump plans to personally welcome the Chinese leader, followed by a formal reception and state dinner.
The upcoming meeting comes after a period of intense economic pressure between Washington and Beijing. Tariffs, technology restrictions, and trade disputes have placed significant strain on relations between the world's two largest economies.
Trade remains at the centre
One of the main issues will be the future of the existcountries' ing tariff arrangement betwotiators are discussing possible measures involving agricultural products, tariffs and other trade barriers ahead of the leaders' meeting
China's purchases of US agricultural products and potentially Boeing aircraft are also being discussed as part of broader trade negotiations.
Rare earths become a major issue
Critical minerals are another important part of the talks.
China plays a major role in global rare-earth supply chains, while the United States wants more reliable access to these materials, which are used in advanced electronics, automobiles, aerospace and other industries
At the same time, Beijing is seeking changes to some US technology restrictions.
AI enters the diplomatic agenda
Artificial intelligence is also expected to feature in discussions between the two governments.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng are scheduled to hold preparatory discussions covering AI, trade, rare earths and wider economic issues before the Trump-Xi meeting
More than just a trade meeting
The two sides also face disagreements over Taiwan and other geopolitical issues. Reuters reports that the September 24 summit is expected to cover several areas beyond economics, including Taiwan, Iran and AI governance
The Washington meeting could therefore provide an important indication of how the US-China relationship develops in the coming months, particularly as both governments continue negotiations on trade and technology.
Islam Global News will continue to follow the Trump-Xi meeting and provide updates as new information is confirmed.
