US-China White House talks between President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping focused on artificial intelligence, trade, technology and security on Thursday, as both leaders publicly stressed cooperation despite continuing differences.
Xi arrived at the White House for a major meeting with Trump, with the discussions expected to address some of the most important issues shaping relations between Washington and Beijing.
The meeting brought together the leaders of the world’s two largest economies at a time when their relationship remains affected by trade disputes, technological competition, Taiwan and broader security concerns.
Xi Says AI Must Remain Under Human Control
Artificial intelligence emerged as one of the central issues during the US-China White House talks, with Xi stressing that both countries have responsibilities as leading powers in the rapidly developing technology.
Xi said China and the United States have both the capability and responsibility to manage artificial intelligence for the benefit of society.
He called on both countries to “ensure the development of AI is always under human control and serve the wellbeing of the people”.
The statement placed AI governance alongside trade and security as an important part of the discussions between Washington and Beijing.
Trump Highlights AI and Technology
Trump also identified technology and artificial intelligence as important subjects during his remarks at the White House.
He said the two leaders would discuss “pressing issues” concerning security, technology and artificial intelligence.
Trump added that decisions made in these areas could “promote peace and prosperity for decades and decades to come”.
The emphasis on AI reflects the growing importance of the technology to economic development, national security and international competition.
Trump Touts ‘Truly Great Friendship’ With Xi
Trump used his opening remarks to highlight his personal relationship with Xi, saying the two leaders had developed a close relationship since he was first elected president in 2016.
Trump said he and Xi had “forged a truly great friendship” during that period.
He also noted that Xi was the first Chinese leader to make a second formal visit to the White House.
Trump said: “A lot has changed since he was last here,” referring to the circumstances surrounding Xi’s latest visit.
The remarks came as both leaders sought to project a cooperative tone during a meeting involving major disagreements and competing national interests.
Trade Remains a Major Issue
Trade was another central subject surrounding the US-China White House talks, with Trump pointing to efforts aimed at creating what he described as a more balanced economic relationship.
Trump said he was “very proud” of the US-China relationship and highlighted efforts involving “new market access for American farmers and ranchers”.
He also said Washington and Beijing had “made tremendous strides on the issues facing our two countries”.
For China, access to the American market and fair treatment for Chinese companies remain important economic concerns.
Xi said: “China keeps its door wide open and welcomes American companies who want to do business and invest there.”
“We hope Chinese companies are treated fairly here in the United States,” he added.
China and US Economies Remain Interconnected
Xi stressed the deep economic relationship between the two countries, saying that the “interests of China and the United States are deeply intertwined”.
He added that it would be difficult to solve many of the world’s problems without cooperation between China and the United States.
The Chinese president also said the two countries “shoulder a historic responsibility to promote human progress”.
Xi said he was willing to work with Trump to “steer the ship of China-US ties”.
“We should strengthen communication,” Xi said, adding that “candid, in-depth, sustained dialogue can promote understanding and mutual trust.”
Xi Calls for Peaceful Competition
Beyond AI and trade, Xi addressed the wider strategic relationship between China and the United States.
“We should co-exist in peace,” Xi said, adding that competition between China and the US should be positive and kept within boundaries.
His remarks reflected the need for Washington and Beijing to manage competition while maintaining communication on areas where their interests overlap.
Xi also called for continued communication between the two countries’ armed forces.
“Our two militaries should maintain regular dialogue,” Xi said, adding that the countries should aim to avoid conflict and confrontation.
Military communication is particularly significant given disagreements between Washington and Beijing over Taiwan and other security issues in the Asia-Pacific region.
Xi Announces US Student Exchange Programme
The White House ceremony also featured announcements designed to strengthen people-to-people links between China and the United States.
Xi invited 100,000 American students to visit China during the next five years for exchange and study programmes.
The announcement came as both governments continue to discuss how to maintain broader links despite strategic and economic competition.
Xi also announced that two pandas, Ping Ping and Fu Shuang, would settle into their new home at Zoo Atlanta in the coming days.
Panda Diplomacy Returns
The panda announcement added a symbolic element to a meeting dominated by major discussions about AI, trade, technology and security.
The arrival of the pandas also recalled China’s long-standing use of panda exchanges as a form of diplomatic engagement with the United States.
The White House ceremony concluded with Trump and Xi shaking hands after both leaders delivered their remarks.
What Comes Next for US-China Relations
The US-China White House talks come as Washington and Beijing attempt to manage competition while maintaining channels for dialogue.
The discussions cover areas where the two countries have significant disagreements, but they also highlight areas where cooperation remains possible.
Xi’s emphasis on keeping AI under human control placed technology governance prominently on the agenda, while Trump’s remarks focused heavily on trade, technology and his relationship with the Chinese leader.
The two governments still face difficult questions involving trade, advanced technology, security and Taiwan.
For now, the public messaging from both leaders has emphasised communication, economic cooperation and avoiding direct confrontation.
The outcome of the talks will therefore be closely watched for any concrete agreements on trade and technology, as well as indications of how Washington and Beijing intend to manage their broader strategic relationship.
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