Xi: The two countries should be partners rather than rivals

President Donald Trump began his trip to Beijing by telling Xi Jinping, “It’s an honor to be your friend,” while Xi Jinping offered a cautionary warning about avoiding a possible clash between the two nations. The leaders remain far apart on issues including the war in Iran, trade disputes, and Washington’s relationship with Taiwan. Xi expressed hope that the U.S. and China can avoid conflict, stating that cooperation benefits both sides while confrontation harms both, and that the two countries should be partners rather than rivals.