
Donald Trump is reportedly eager to visit China once he’s sworn into office, according to sources familiar with his plans. The president-elect is looking to open talks with Beijing while sticking to his tough approach on trade and other issues.
Trump has been eyeing several international trips, including a potential meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who he’s had a friendly rapport with for years. The Wall Street Journal first broke the news about Trump’s China travel plans.
Despite campaigning on a platform critical of China, Trump recently chatted with President Xi Jinping over the phone. They discussed trade, fentanyl, and TikTok, with Trump even extending an invitation to Xi for his inauguration. However, China is sending Vice President Han Zheng instead.
Trump has often emphasized the importance of direct communication with foreign leaders, frequently highlighting his relationships with figures like Xi and Russia’s Vladimir Putin. Jason Miller, a Trump adviser, noted that Trump believes real change comes from talking directly to other nations, even if it means being firm in those discussions.
One adviser close to Trump revealed that the president-elect sees his bond with Xi as symbolic of the broader US-China relationship. Trump’s first term included efforts to strengthen ties, like inviting Xi to Mar-a-Lago for informal talks and visiting Beijing in 2017. That trip featured memorable moments, such as the two leaders touring the Forbidden City and holding discussions in the Great Hall of the People.
Xi has also signaled openness, congratulating Trump after his victory and expressing hope for a productive relationship. It seems both sides are eager to find common ground in the coming months.