During a state banquet in Beijing, Chinese President Xi Jinping spoke warmly about the US-China relationship, suggesting China’s ‘great rejuvenation’ and former President Trump’s ‘Make America Great Again’ goals need not be at odds and could advance together. In a high-profile toast, Xi described ties between the world’s two largest economies as the defining bilateral relationship of our time and urged both sides to ‘make it work and never mess it up.’
Xi emphasized cooperation over confrontation, saying the two countries should be partners rather than rivals and that mutual respect is essential for the relationship to move forward. He told guests that both nations can help each other succeed and, in doing so, improve global well-being.
The Chinese leader also reported that he and Trump had held in-depth discussions on bilateral and international issues and said they agreed to pursue a constructive China‑US relationship built on strategic stability to ensure steady, sustainable development in their ties.
Responding to Xi’s conciliatory remarks, President Trump invited Xi to visit the White House on September 24. Trump reflected on the longstanding connections between the American and Chinese peoples, noting ties that stretch back to the early years of the United States and recalling symbolic gestures like a Chinese-donated tablet honoring George Washington.
Both leaders highlighted shared values such as hard work and achievement and framed renewed cooperation as beneficial not only for their countries but for the wider world. The exchanges at the banquet signaled an emphasis on diplomacy and stability, with both sides signaling a willingness to manage differences while pursuing areas of common interest.
