Xi Jinping state visit to the US begins with Donald Trump welcome

Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in the United States on Wednesday to begin a three-day trip, marked by an unusual tarmac greeting from US President Donald Trump.

Accompanied by First Lady Melania Trump, the American leader met Xi and First Lady Peng Liyuan as they descended from their aircraft at Joint Base Andrews outside Washington, rather than awaiting their arrival at the White House, according to multiple media reports.

The tarmac welcome represents the first instance in 11 years that a US president has personally welcomed a foreign dignitary at the military airfield, following Barack Obama’s greeting of Pope Francis in 2015. 

A 30-metre red carpet was rolled out alongside a 21-person honour guard. As cannons fired ceremonial shots and a military band played, a B-1 bomber performed a flyover overhead. The leaders conversed briefly before parting prior to formal discussions.

High stakes and ceremony mark Xi Jinping state visit to the US

Speaking on Fox News, Melania Trump explained that her husband chose to greet the Chinese leader personally on domestic soil out of respect and their warm relationship. Trump has praised Xi as a great leader and friend, while US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated in New York that top-level engagement between the two largest economies and military powers is vital.

The welcoming ceremony reflects efforts to mirror the reception Trump received in Beijing earlier this year. During that trip, Vice President Han Zheng met Air Force One alongside a red carpet, military band, honour guard, and approximately 300 local youths wearing uniforms matching the presidential aircraft colours while waving national flags.

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The itinerary for the remainder of the Xi Jinping state visit to the US features extensive ceremonial events and official business. On Thursday, an arrival ceremony at the White House and troop review will precede closed-door bilateral talks regarding substantial issues. 

In the evening, a black-tie state dinner will take place, attended by technology leaders including Jensen Huang of Nvidia and Elon Musk of SpaceX. On Friday, both couples will share private tea at the White House before visiting the National Archives.